This refreshing Limoncello Spritz cocktail is made with sweet Italian limoncello, soda water, and bubbly prosecco. It is one of the best Italian cocktails to sip on when the warm weather hits or when you need a warm, Italian vacation escape.
Spritz cocktails are such great cocktails that take center stage when the temperature rises. Other similar cocktails that I love are the classic Aperol Spritz, Elderflower Hugo Spritz, and Wild Berry Chambord Spritz.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Refreshing Taste: The combination of Limoncello and sparkling wine offers a crisp and refreshing taste, making it the perfect drink for warm days or as a palate cleanser.
- Simple to Make: With just a few simple ingredients—Limoncello, sparkling wine, and soda water—it’s an easy cocktail to mix, ideal for both beginners and experienced cocktail enthusiasts.
- Versatile: This limoncello cocktail suits various occasions, from casual gatherings to more formal events. Its elegance and simplicity make it adaptable to many settings.
What is Limoncello?
Limoncello is an Italian liqueur made by soaking lemon peels in neutral-flavored alcohol and then adding a sugar syrup. It results in a thick, sweet, and tart liqueur with a bright lemon flavor that can be drunk by itself as a digestif, which is something to sip on after a meal to help “digest.”
It is really delicious on its own but it also makes for a perfect cocktail ingredient. You can also make your own limoncello, but how to make homemade limoncello is a post for another day.
Supposedly, there are a few backstories to how limoncello was created. It is a staple liqueur on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. Whatever its true origin is, it’s generally agreed upon that it’s a liqueur that originated at least 100 years ago. And most importantly (at least to me) is that it’s super delicious.
What are Spritz Cocktails?
Spritz cocktails are an IBA (International Bartenders Association) recognized Italian cocktail that hails from the Veneto region of Italy. They date back to the 1800s when Habsburg Empire soldiers wanted to drink wine but were not accustomed to the higher alcohol content of the Venetian wine. The soldiers began asking for a spray (the German word is spritzen) of water to dilute the wine.
Spritz cocktails generally follow a 3-2-1 ratio of ingredients. Typically 3 parts prosecco, 2 parts sweet or bittersweet liqueur (in this case it would be 2 parts limoncello), and 1 part soda water. Other variations of this simple cocktail have evolved over the years and include Hugo Spritz (an elderflower spritz made with mint leaves) and the popular Aperol Spritz. More recently spritz recipes, like this Italicus Spritz, have been popping up.
Ingredient Notes
- Limoncello – You can find limoncello liqueur at most liquor stores without any issue.
- Prosecco – This Italian sparkling white wine is made from the Glera grape and is essential to a good Italian spritz. Since limoncello is such a sweet liqueur, look for a dry or brut-style bottle of prosecco.
- Soda water or club soda – You can use sparkling water or club soda. I sometimes make mine in my SodaStream or I’ll use the Limoncello La Croix flavored sparkling water.
- Garnishes – Fresh herbs and fresh lemon slices are the perfect garnishes for a Limoncello Spritz. For herbs, a fresh mint sprig, rosemary, or fresh basil would all work well.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Fill a large wine glass with ice cubes. Add the limoncello to the glass.
Step 2: Add the prosecco.
Step 3: Top with the soda water.
Step 4: Garnish with a slice of lemon and/or a fresh herb, optional.
Expert Tips
- Chill Everything: Ensure all your ingredients, including Limoncello, sparkling wine, and soda water, are well-chilled before mixing. This enhances the refreshing nature of the drink.
- Serve Immediately: To maintain its fizz and refreshing quality, serve the Limoncello Spritz right after mixing.
- Experiment with Variations: Feel free to experiment with different variations of the spritz. Adding a dash of bitters or a splash of another liqueur can add depth and complexity to the flavor. You can also try different types of citrus garnishes, like lime or orange, for a twist.
FAQ
Can you make a big batch of Limoncello Spritz cocktails? And, can I make a batch in advance?
Yes, you definitely can make a big pitcher of Limoncello Spritz to serve to a crowd. I’ve included measurements for making a Limoncello Spritz pitcher in the recipe notes.
I would advise against making it in advance as the prosecco and soda water could go flat. I recommend just having all of your ingredients chilled and ready to go if you want to prep in advance.
Is limoncello high in alcohol?
Limoncello typically has a moderate alcohol content, generally ranging between 25% and 30% alcohol by volume (ABV). This level is higher than wine or beer but lower than most hard liquors like vodka or whiskey.
The alcohol content can vary depending on the brand or homemade recipe. Since it’s often consumed in small quantities or mixed into cocktails like the Limoncello Spritz, the overall alcohol intake per serving is usually moderate.
Can I drink limoncello straight?
Yes, you can definitely drink Limoncello straight. It’s traditionally served chilled as a digestif, often after a meal. Enjoying it straight allows you to fully appreciate its sweet, lemony flavor. Serving it cold enhances its refreshing qualities and helps to temper the sweetness. Remember to sip it slowly to savor its taste and aroma.
Where can I buy those striped straws?
These cute paper straws that give that summery-vibe can be found on Amazon (see below) in several different colors.
Related Recipes
Did you love this cocktail?
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Limoncello Spritz Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces limoncello
- 3 ounces prosecco (dry or brut style)
- 1 ounce soda water
- Sliced lemons and/or rosemary for garnish (or basil or mint, optional)
Instructions
- Fill a large wine glass with ice and add the limoncello.
- Top with prosecco and soda water.
- Gently stir and garnish if desired.
Notes
- 2 cups limoncello
- 1 bottle prosecco (750 ml bottle, dry or brut style)
- 1 cup soda water (about ⅔ of a 12 ounce can)
Nutrition
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Whitney
This is the perfect summer cocktail!
Cory
One of my favorite drinks!