Introduction
The Americano Highball is a cocktail that combines elegance with simplicity, making it a staple in the world of classic drinks. Known for its vibrant red hue and refreshing taste, this cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet vermouth and Campari, topped with soda water. It's a drink that captures the essence of Italian aperitivo culture, offering a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness.
The Americano Highball dates back to the 1860s, originally known as the 'Milano-Torino' due to its ingredients' origins—Campari from Milan and vermouth from Turin. It gained its current name during the Prohibition era when American tourists in Italy popularized the drink. Interestingly, the Americano is also the precursor to the iconic Negroni, which swaps soda water for gin, creating a stronger, more robust cocktail.
A fun fact about the Americano Highball is its association with James Bond. In Ian Fleming's novels, the Americano was one of Bond's preferred drinks, often ordered when he sought something lighter than his signature martini. With such a rich history and cultural significance, the Americano Highball remains a beloved choice for cocktail enthusiasts around the globe.
Ingredients
To craft an Americano Highball, you'll need a few key ingredients that bring out its signature taste. Here's what you'll need:
- 1.5 oz Sweet Vermouth: Opt for a quality sweet vermouth like Carpano Antica to enhance the drink's complexity.
- 1.5 oz Campari: Campari is essential for that distinctive bitter edge and brilliant red color.
- 1 Soda Water: Use chilled soda water to give the cocktail its refreshing fizz.
- 1 Flamed Orange Peel: A flamed orange peel adds a touch of citrus aroma and a hint of drama to your presentation.
- 1 Ice: Large, clear ice cubes are ideal to keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly.
Instructions
Creating an Americano Highball is straightforward, but a few steps ensure it's mixed to perfection. Follow these instructions:
- Pour vermouth and Campari into an ice-filled highball glass.
- Top with soda water.
- Garnish with flamed orange peel.
Tips
- Chill your highball glass in the freezer before use to keep the cocktail colder for longer.
- Experiment with different vermouths to find the balance of sweetness and herbal notes you prefer.
- For a less bitter version, try substituting Aperol for Campari.
- Master the art of flaming an orange peel by holding the peel over the drink and gently warming it with a lighter before squeezing the oils into the cocktail.
Conclusion
The Americano Highball is more than just a cocktail; it's a piece of history in a glass. Its refreshing nature and balanced flavors make it an ideal choice for a leisurely afternoon or an elegant evening gathering. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or just starting your cocktail journey, the Americano Highball is a must-try for its simplicity and sophistication.
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Americano Highball recipe adapted from The Craft of the Cocktail by Dale DeGroff.
