How to Make a Siciliano

The Siciliano is a sophisticated and alluring cocktail that captures the essence of Italian craftsmanship and culinary artistry. Originating from the vibrant cocktail culture of Italy, this drink is a testament to the Italian flair for balancing robust flavors with refreshing notes. The Siciliano is a beloved choice among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike, renowned for its intriguing mix of sweet vermouth, the herbal bitterness of Amaro, and the rich depth of cold-brew coffee. These elements combine to create a cocktail experience that is both invigorating and relaxing, making it a popular choice in bars and homes across the globe. Whether you are winding down a busy day or gearing up for a lively evening, making a Siciliano offers a delightful glimpse into the world of classic Italian cocktails.

What is a Siciliano?

The Siciliano is a uniquely refreshing cocktail that stands out in the vast landscape of Italian mixology. This drink blends the sweet, aromatic complexities of vermouth with the distinctively bitter undertones of Amaro, a traditional Italian herbal liqueur. The addition of cold-brew coffee introduces a robust, invigorating layer that complements the herbal and sweet notes, creating a sophisticated and balanced flavor profile.

Unlike many other Italian cocktails that are primarily focused on crisp, citrus, and bitter flavors—like the Negroni or the Aperol Spritz—the Siciliano offers a deeper, more nuanced taste experience. It’s less about the sharpness of citrus and more about the harmony of bitterness and sweetness, wrapped in the velvety texture of coffee. This makes the Siciliano ideal for those who appreciate a cocktail that delivers both energy and relaxation in each sip, providing a modern twist on traditional Italian ingredients. The cocktail’s versatility and rich flavor profile make it perfect for sipping as a pre-dinner aperitif or a leisurely after-dinner digestif, bridging the gap between different types of classic Italian drinks.

How to Make a Siciliano

Recipe by Matt Simmons

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

The Siciliano is a captivating Italian cocktail that combines the sweet, herbal notes of vermouth and Amaro with the bold, rich essence of cold-brew coffee. This blend is sweetened slightly with simple syrup and finished with a splash of club soda, creating a drink that is as easy to make as it is delightful to taste. The Siciliano is characterized by its elegant simplicity, allowing the deep flavors to shine through without requiring complex techniques or obscure ingredients. Ideal for anyone looking to explore the nuances of Italian cocktails, it offers a refreshing change from the usual suspects. With just a few ingredients and a simple stir, you can transport your taste buds to the cafes of Italy, enjoying a cocktail that is both invigorating and soothing.

Ingredients

• 2 oz sweet vermouth

• 1 oz Amaro (Italian bitter liqueur)

• 1 oz strong cold-brew coffee

• 1 oz simple syrup

• Club soda, to top

• Ice cubes

• Orange slice and cherry for garnish

Directions

• Fill a Glass with Ice Cubes: Begin by filling a highball glass to the brim with ice cubes, ensuring that your drink will be well-chilled.
• Combine the Liquids: Pour the sweet vermouth, Amaro, cold-brew coffee, and simple syrup into the glass over the ice. The sweet vermouth provides aromatic sweetness, the Amaro adds a herbal bitterness, and the coffee injects a robust depth.
• Stir the Mixture: Using a long spoon or stirrer, mix the contents of the glass well. This step integrates all the flavors, allowing them to meld together beautifully.
• Add Club Soda: Top the mixture with a splash of club soda. This not only adds a slight fizz to the cocktail but also helps to balance the sweetness and bitterness.
• Garnish: Place an orange slice on the rim of the glass and drop a cherry into the drink. These garnishes add a touch of citrus aroma and a hint of fruity sweetness that complements the cocktail’s complex flavors.
• Serve Immediately: Present the Siciliano promptly after preparation to enjoy its freshness and vibrant flavors at their peak. This cocktail is perfect for savoring on a relaxing evening or as a refined addition to a social gathering.

Equipment

• Highball Glass
• Measuring Jigger
• Stirrer

Notes

• Select High-Quality Vermouth and Amaro: The quality of the vermouth and Amaro can significantly influence the taste of your Siciliano. Opt for high-quality brands that are known for their depth and complexity. A good vermouth should be aromatic and not overly sweet, while a well-crafted Amaro should offer a balance of bitterness and herbal notes.
• Sweetening Alternatives: If you prefer a different kind of sweetness or wish to experiment with flavors, consider using honey syrup or agave nectar instead of simple syrup. These alternatives can add a subtle flavor twist that complements the herbal and coffee notes.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: For a non-alcoholic Siciliano, replace the vermouth and Amaro with non-alcoholic alternatives, which are increasingly available in markets. Non-alcoholic bitter syrups or herbal infusions can mimic the complexity of Amaro, while non-alcoholic vermouth substitutes can provide the needed herbal and floral qualities.
• Coffee Selection: The choice of coffee is crucial, as it contributes a significant flavor profile to the cocktail. Use a bold, robust cold-brew coffee that can stand up to the strong flavors of the vermouth and Amaro. Avoid overly acidic or mild coffee as it can be overshadowed by the other ingredients.
• Chilling the Ingredients: For an extra refreshing cocktail, chill all your liquid ingredients beforehand. This ensures that the Siciliano stays colder and more refreshing, even after mixing.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 150kcal
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sugar: 17g

Conclusion

The Siciliano is a truly delightful cocktail that stands out for its sophisticated blend of flavors—sweet, herbal, bitter, and robust—all harmoniously balanced in one glass. Its preparation, involving high-quality vermouth, the bitter complexity of Amaro, and the deep richness of cold-brew coffee, creates a sensory experience that’s both invigorating and soothing. This cocktail not only offers a taste of Italian cocktail artistry but does so with an elegance that is easy to achieve in your own home.

Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious beginner, the Siciliano is impressively simple to prepare. Its straightforward method and the accessible nature of its ingredients make it an ideal choice for experimenting with mixology at home. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and prepare to indulge in a cocktail that transports you straight to the heart of Italy. Enjoy the Siciliano as a refreshing end to a busy day or serve it at your next gathering to impress your guests with your cocktail-making prowess. Cheers to the simple pleasures of a well-made drink!

Frequently Asked Questions about Siciliano

Q1: Can I make a Siciliano without coffee?

A: Yes, you can substitute coffee with chocolate bitters or leave it out for a less bitter taste. Using chocolate bitters can introduce a new layer of richness while maintaining the complexity of the drink.

Q2: What are some good alternatives for Amaro?

A: Other Italian bitters like Campari or Aperol can be used, though they will slightly alter the flavor profile. Campari will introduce a more pronounced bitterness and red fruit notes, while Aperol will add a lighter, orange-citrusy touch.

Q3: Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Siciliano?

A: Yes, replace the alcoholic components with non-alcoholic vermouth and bitter substitutes. There are several non-alcoholic spirits on the market that mimic the herbal and bitter qualities necessary for a convincing mocktail version.

Q4: How can I make this drink sweeter or less sweet?

A: Adjust the amount of simple syrup to taste or substitute it with a flavored syrup like vanilla or caramel. If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the simple syrup or try using a less sweet vermouth.

Q5: What’s the best time to serve a Siciliano?

A: It’s perfect as an aperitif or a refreshing mid-afternoon cocktail. Its rich and complex flavors make it versatile enough to serve before dinner to stimulate the appetite or as a sophisticated drink to enjoy during a relaxed afternoon.