Americano is another version of a vermouth and is also based on white wine. Just like the Vermouth, Americano draws from much the same pool of botanicals, and their classification or style is a question of the intent behind the proprietary formluation. Contratto in the beginning of the 19th century began producing Americano Bianco and Rosso, that compared to the Vermouths, were more sweet and therefore were more appealing to the American palate. Americano can come in various colors, such as deep red, straw or even clear (colorless). Americanos serve a similar function to Vermouths: they are excellent aperitifs on their own, and they make fine components of mixed drinks