What Is an Americano Coffee Drink

What Is an Americano Coffee Drink?

An Americano coffee is one of the simplest yet most satisfying coffee drinks you can order. Known for its smooth taste and espresso-forward aroma, it strikes the perfect middle ground between a strong espresso and a milder black coffee. It’s a favourite in many a coffee shop, but what exactly makes an Americano unique?

How an Americano Coffee Is Made

An Americano is traditionally made by adding hot water to an espresso shot (or two). In other words, it’s simply espresso and hot water combined. The result is a coffee drink similar in strength to drip coffee yet richer in flavour thanks to the crema and concentrated extraction of the espresso.

Interestingly, the drink is often said to originate from American soldiers stationed in Italy during World War II, who diluted espresso with hot water to mimic the filter-style coffee they were used to back home.

The Classic Ratio

A traditional Americano is prepared with:

  • 1 part espresso

  • 2–3 parts hot water

This ratio delivers a clean, aromatic cup with the depth of a strong espresso but a smoother, more approachable finish. Some people prefer slightly more water, while others enjoy keeping it closer to the espresso for a fuller body.

If you enjoy a balanced, flavourful brew, try our House Blend Coffee — perfect for brewing an Americano at home.

Americano vs Other Coffee Drinks

Americano coffee is often compared to similar espresso-based drinks. Here’s how it differs:

Americano vs Long Black

Although both drinks combine espresso and water, the method makes a noticeable difference:

  • Americano: Hot water is added after pouring the espresso.

  • Long Black: Espresso is poured over the hot water, preserving more crema and resulting in a stronger, more intense cup.

Americano vs Filter Coffee

While an Americano may resemble black filter coffee, the brewing process differs:

  • Americano: Espresso diluted with hot water.

  • Filter/Drip Coffee: Brewed by slow extraction through a filter using coffee beans and cold water heated during brewing, giving a lighter body.

For a filter-style flavour profile, try our New World Blend Coffee — a medium-light roast with balanced acidity.

Taste Profile of an Americano Coffee

An Americano offers a clean, bold, sometimes slightly smoky flavour. It’s less intense than straight espresso but more robust than drip coffee. Depending on the beans you choose, you may notice chocolatey, nutty, fruity or caramel notes.

Experiment with different origins to find your favourite:

Caffeine Content in an Americano

Caffeine levels depend on how many espresso shots you use:

  • Single Americano: 60–80 mg caffeine

  • Double Americano: 120–160 mg caffeine

If you prefer a gentler version, you can make a decaf Americano using our Swiss Water Decaf Blend Coffee.

How to Make an Americano at Home

Making an Americano at home is simple with just a few tools.

You’ll Need

  • An espresso machine or pod machine

  • Freshly ground coffee beans

  • Hot water

Steps

  1. Pull a single or double espresso shot.

  2. Add hot water (about twice the espresso volume).

  3. Stir lightly and enjoy!

For best results, try a versatile medium roast such as our Excellence Blend Coffee.

Variations of Americano Coffee

Customise your Americano to suit any preference:

  • Iced Americano: Espresso poured into cold water and ice — perfect with Savannah Ice Coffee.

  • White Americano: Add a splash of milk or steamed milk for a gentler, creamier finish.

  • Flavoured Americano: Vanilla or caramel syrup pairs beautifully with medium roasts like Dulce Blend Coffee.

Summary: What Is an Americano Coffee Drink?

An Americano coffee is simply espresso diluted with hot water — a rich, smooth and aromatic coffee drink with endless versatility. Whether you enjoy a bold, espresso-led profile or a more delicate, filter-like cup, the Americano adapts effortlessly.

Discover your perfect Americano with our Arabica Blend Coffee or Forte Blend Coffee.

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