Beer Americano

The Beer Americano is a laid-back spin on the classic Americano, swapping out soda water for a light, frothy lager. It blends bitter Campari with sweet vermouth, balanced by the crisp and bubbly character of beer. The result is refreshing, slightly bitter, and super easy to drink. It’s perfect for warm afternoons or when you want something low-alcohol that still feels like a proper cocktail. This one works best with a clean, light lager nothing too hoppy or strong.

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Tasting Notes

The Beer Americano has a bold, slightly bitter flavor with a smooth, malty finish. Campari brings a sharp orange note, while sweet vermouth softens it with a touch of warmth and spice. Topped with frothed lager, it gets a crisp, creamy layer that pulls everything together. It’s refreshing but still has depth. The beer lightens the body, so it feels less heavy than a classic Americano. The orange wedge brightens up the aroma and gives a little lift to each sip. It’s a great pick when you want a cocktail that’s familiar but has a little twist.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a jigger to measure, a bar spoon for stirring, and a way to froth the lager either with a milk frother, beer foamer, or by pouring hard into a chilled cup. Use a rocks glass or small tumbler, filled with ice. If you want to make it look extra sharp, use a clear glass to show the layers and color. Keep your glass cold for a better pour, and use fresh ice. Have a citrus knife on hand to cut the orange wedge. No shaker or strainer needed just build and stir.

Ingredients

• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 3 oz lager (frothed)
• Orange wedge, for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a glass with ice.
• Pour in the Campari and sweet vermouth.
• Froth the lager using a milk frother or small whisk until it’s nice and foamy.
• Gently pour the frothed beer over the cocktail.
• Stir lightly and garnish with an orange wedge.

Pro Tips

• Use a milk frother to get a soft, foamy beer head.
• Chill your lager ahead of time for the best texture.
• A gentle stir helps the vermouth and Campari mix without killing the fizz.
• Pour the beer at an angle, then level off for a better top layer.
• Choose a balanced lager not too bitter or too sweet.
• Pre-chill the glass to help the foam hold longer.
• Don’t skip the orange it adds balance and ties in the citrus.
• Use large ice cubes to keep it cold without watering it down too fast.

When to Serve

The Beer Americano is great for early evenings, patio drinks, or when you want something light but flavorful. It’s a good low-alcohol option that still feels like a cocktail. Serve it at casual happy hours, dinner parties, or anywhere you’d offer a spritz or aperitif. The beer makes it feel more relaxed, while the Campari and vermouth keep it grounded in classic cocktail flavor. It’s also an easy conversation starter for folks who haven’t had beer and Campari together before. Quick to make, easy to drink, and just the right balance of bitter and smooth.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Campari:

• Campari (classic, no substitute needed)

Sweet Vermouth:

• Carpano Antica
• Cocchi Vermouth di Torino

Lager:

• Peroni
• Stella Artois
• Brooklyn Lager

Similar Cocktails

• Watermelon Negroni
• Frozen Negroni
• Chai Tea Irish Negroni
• Frozen Campari Spritz
• Campari Tonic