Introduction:Americano is one of the most widely consumed types of coffee in the world, but do you know how it differs from a Long Black? From the ratio of espresso to water, hot or iced brewing methods, to the choice of coffee beans and home brewing tips, this article will comprehensively explain the various types of Americano, how to make it, and the correct way to enjoy it—helping you master a truly aromatic and balanced cup.

Americano is a daily beverage for many people, whether it’s a steaming hot comforting cup or a refreshing summer specialty. However, when it comes to its origins, how it’s made, and especially how it differs from a Long Black, many are actually only vaguely familiar. This article will start with the historical background, the ratio of espresso to water, and hot vs. iced brewing methods, then compare the detailed differences between Americano and Long Black. It will also delve into the blend coffee beans best suited for making Americano, so you can easily brew an outstanding-tasting cup at home.

The Origin of Americano: A Wartime Coincidence

The English term for Americano comes from the Italian "Caffè Americano," meaning "American coffee." Although it's unclear who first created it, the most widely circulated story is related to World War II. At the time, American soldiers stationed in Europe found the strong and bitter espresso too intense, so they diluted it with water to a more palatable strength. After the war, this method of "adjusting flavor with water" spread globally along with the soldiers and coffee culture, eventually evolving into what we now know as Americano.

Americano is a type of black coffee, with no milk or sugar added, allowing the original aroma and layered flavors of the coffee beans to shine through. Many coffee enthusiasts also prefer using it at home to test the true expression of the beans.

How to Make Americano? The Golden Ratio of Espresso to Water

Generally, Americano is made by using one shot of espresso (about 30ml) as the base, then diluting it with hot water. A common ratio of espresso to water is 1:6, which means using about20 grams of coffee grounds to extract 40 grams of espresso, then adding240 grams of hot water at around 88°Cto create a standard-flavored hot Americano. For iced Americano, it’s recommended to replace part of the hot water with a combination of ice and cold water—for example,120 grams of ice plus 120 grams of room temperature water, and to drink it before the ice fully melts to achieve the best taste.

In addition, there are slight differences in extraction and drinking timing between hot and iced Americano. The former emphasizes flavor integration, while the latter requires attention to the impact of melting ice on concentration. It’s advised to sip at the right moment to capture the optimal flavor window.

Americano vs Long Black: More Than Just the Order—Flavor Differs Greatly

Besides the common Americano, you might have also seen "Long Black" on some café menus. This is actually a term commonly used in Australia and New Zealand. Locally, Black Coffee refers to black coffee, White Coffee is coffee with milk, espresso is called Short Black, and adding water turns it into a Long Black.

The biggest difference lies in the preparation order and the final taste. Americano is made by extracting espresso first, then diluting it with hot water, typically in a ratio of1:5 to 1:8. The overall taste is lighter and more refreshing, with a thinner crema (coffee foam layer). In contrast, Long Black involves first pouring100–120 milliliters of hot waterinto the cup, then directly adding two shots of espresso (about 40 grams total) into the water. This way, the crema floats on the surface, resulting in a bolder, richer first sip that transitions into a cleaner, crisper flavor. It’s ideal for those who enjoy the taste of espresso but don’t want something overly intense.

Choosing the Right Beans Is Key to Brewing a Great Americano

To make a flavorful and well-layered Americano at home, selecting the right coffee beans is crucial. Generally,medium to dark roasted espresso blendsare the top choice, as these beans usually offer stronger body and more stable aroma, making them suitable for creating the espresso base. Blends are designed to complement the characteristics of beans from different regions, achieving a balance of flavors and layered aromas.

Here are several common and suitable blend types for making Americano:

• Classic Bold Type: Common formulations may include Robusta (10%), Colombian (30%), and Brazilian (60%). These blends often have a rich crema, smoky notes, and a creamy mouthfeel, ideal for those who prefer a bold taste.
• Mildly Acidic & Bold Type: For example, a combination of Yunnan small bean coffee (30%) and Brazilian (70%), offering gentle acidity with caramel and plum-like sour tones, suitable for those who enjoy a balanced sweet and acidic profile.
• Balanced & Rich Type: Primarily a blend of Colombian and Brazilian beans, often exhibiting chocolate and caramel aromas, with full and stable flavors.
• Delicate & Winey Type: Such as using Ethiopian sun-dried red cherry and Honduran sherry cask beans, which can bring out intense dark chocolate and caramel notes, excellent whether enjoyed with milk or black, offering great complexity.

By understanding the characteristics of each blend type, you can choose the coffee beans that best suit your taste preferences and craft your own style of Americano.

Whether you prefer a classic hot Americano, a refreshing iced Americano, or even want to try the Australian-style Long Black, as long as you get the ratio right and choose the right beans, you can easily enjoy a full-flavored, memorable cup of black coffee.

The above content is compiled by CoffeeHunters, a coffee news website.