Italy is a country of rich culture, history, and tradition. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the bustling streets of Rome, Italy has something for everyone.
One of the most celebrated aspects of Italian culture is its cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Italian cuisine has inspired people all over the world, and it has also inspired some of the most delicious cocktails in the world.
Italian craft cocktails are known for their sophistication, complexity, and depth of flavor. They are made using the finest ingredients, and they are crafted with precision and care.
These cocktails are perfect for any occasion, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just relaxing with friends.
The best Italian craft cocktails are a reflection of the country's rich history and culture. They are inspired by the flavors and traditions of Italy, and they are crafted using techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation.
These cocktails are a celebration of Italy's culinary heritage, and they are a testament to the country's passion for food and drink.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the best Italian craft cocktail recipes. From classic drinks like the Negroni and the Aperol Spritz to modern creations like the Amalfi Coast and the Sicilian Sunset, we will take you on a journey through the world of Italian craft cocktails.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover some of the most delicious and sophisticated cocktails in the world.
1. Arancia Italiano
Arancia Italiano is a smooth and delicious Amaretto cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This Italian-inspired cocktail has hints of orange and is dressed up for fine dining, but easy enough to make at home. The cocktail is made with Stirrings Cocktail Mixers, and the Lemon Drop Rimmer Cocktail Garnish gives it an extra ooh la la factor.
The Arancia Italiano is perfect for those who love to try new drinks and enjoy a little bit of sweetness in their cocktails. This cocktail is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. So, if you're looking for a new Italian craft cocktail recipe to try, the Arancia Italiano is definitely worth a shot!
2. Lemon Prosecco Float Sgroppino
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique Italian craft cocktail, the Lemon Prosecco Float Sgroppino is a must-try. Made with only three ingredients – lemon sorbet, vodka, and Prosecco – this cocktail is sweet, tangy, and bubbly all at once. It's the perfect drink to enjoy on a warm summer day, whether as a palate cleanser after a big meal or as a light aperitif.
The addition of vodka adds a subtle sharpness to balance out the sweetness of the sorbet, while the Prosecco adds a delightful effervescence. Served with amaretti or little cantuccini biscuits, this cocktail is a delicious and refreshing treat that's sure to impress.
3. Grilled Tangerine Frozen Negroni
The Grilled Tangerine Frozen Negroni is a unique take on the classic Negroni cocktail, perfect for summer sipping. This frozen version features the bitter grapefruit notes of Campari and the herbal notes of gin and vermouth, with a twist of sweet caramelized citrus from grilled tangerines.
The grilled tangerine adds a nice sweetness that smooths out the rough bitter edges of the Negroni, making this a refreshing and delicious slushie version of the classic cocktail. If you're looking for a creative and refreshing Italian craft cocktail, the Grilled Tangerine Frozen Negroni is definitely worth a try.
4. Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail that is a perfect balance of earthy, bitter, and sweet flavors. It is made with gin, Campari, and sweet red vermouth, and is finished off with a flamed orange peel.
The ruby-like jewel tones of the cocktail paired with the bright orange peel garnish make it visually stunning and perfect for any occasion. Its unique flavor profile and rich history make it a standout in the world of Italian craft cocktails.
5. Vampire Cynar Negroni
Looking for a spooky twist on a classic cocktail? Look no further than the Vampire Cynar Negroni! This Italian craft cocktail takes the traditional Negroni recipe and adds a Halloween flair with a smoking sprig of rosemary and a touch of dry ice for a foggy effect. The use of Cynar, an Italian digestivo, brings a sweet earthiness to the cocktail while adding a hint of midnight color.
Strawberry-infused Campari adds a bitter note and a bright red color, making it a perfect addition to this vampire-inspired cocktail. With its unique blend of flavors and eerie presentation, the Vampire Cynar Negroni is sure to be a hit at any Halloween party.
6. Cynar Toronto
The Cynar Toronto is a must-try Italian craft cocktail that perfectly balances sweet and bitter flavors. This stirred drink is a modern twist on the classic old fashioned, with the addition of Cynar, an Italian amaro made with thirteen herbs and botanicals, including artichokes.
Despite its unusual ingredient, Cynar is surprisingly light and sugary in taste, making it a versatile ingredient for cocktails. The Cynar Toronto is a perfect example of this, with its complex yet approachable flavor profile. Whether you're looking for a before-meal apéritif or an after-dinner nightcap, the Cynar Toronto is a delicious option that is sure to impress.
7. Limoncello Spritz
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make Italian cocktail? Look no further than the Limoncello Spritz. This crisp and bubbly drink is made with just three ingredients: limoncello, Prosecco, and soda. The sweet and tart flavors of the limoncello pair perfectly with the bubbly Prosecco, making for a drink that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Whether you're sipping it on a hot summer day or enjoying it as a brunch substitute for mimosas, the Limoncello Spritz is sure to please. So why not give it a try and transport yourself to the Italian coast with just one sip?
8. Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian aperitif that has been enjoyed for generations. This refreshing cocktail is made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water, and is garnished with a slice of orange and an olive. It's the perfect drink to enjoy before a meal, or as a mid-day pick-me-up.
The 3, 2, 1 method makes it easy to remember the recipe, and the simple ingredients make it easy to whip up at home. With its bright orange color and bubbly texture, the Aperol Spritz is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress. Whether you're sipping it on a sunny patio or enjoying it at a bustling bar, the Aperol Spritz is a must-try Italian craft cocktail that will leave you wanting more.
9. Fernet Braca Cocktail
The Fernet Braca Cocktail is a unique and refreshing Italian craft cocktail that is perfect for those looking for something different. Made with Fernet Branca, an herbal liqueur that is sourced from over 40 herbs and spices from four continents, this cocktail has a heady aroma and a complex flavor profile.
The addition of orange and ginger gives it a citrusy and spicy kick that perfectly complements the herbal notes of the Fernet Branca. This cocktail is a great way to celebrate National Herbs and Spices Day and is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavor. If you're looking for a new and exciting Italian craft cocktail to try, the Fernet Braca Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
10. Limoncello Gin Cocktail
The Limoncello Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious Italian Craft Cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with sweet Limoncello, gin, lime juice, and fresh thyme, this cocktail is easy enough to serve individually or prepared into a large batch.
Limoncello, a classic Italian liqueur, is made from the zest of particularly flavorful lemons that grow in the regions of Sorrento, Capri, and the Amalfi Coast in Italy. The addition of fresh thyme gives the cocktail a subtle herbal note that complements the sweetness of the Limoncello. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and tangy drink with a hint of herbaceousness.
11. The Corduroy
"The Corduroy" is a cozy and sophisticated Italian craft cocktail made with rye whiskey and Cardamaro, an Italian wine-based amaro.
The Cardamaro adds a subtle sweetness and gentle bitterness to the drink, while a couple of dashes of orange bitters round out the flavor. It's a simple but delicious cocktail that's perfect for when you want something comforting and sophisticated.
12. Bermuda Hundred Gin Cocktail
The Bermuda Hundred Gin Cocktail is a unique blend of Italian aperitif and tiki drink. This gin-based cocktail combines the bitterness of Campari with the smooth nuttiness of orgeat syrup, resulting in a tropical yet bitter flavor profile.
The addition of pineapple juice and lime gives the drink a refreshing twist, making it perfect for a summer evening. The use of Campari in a tiki drink is what sets this cocktail apart, making it a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts looking for a unique and refreshing Italian craft cocktail.
13. Negroni Fizz
The Negroni Fizz is a refreshing and fizzy twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. This Italian Craft Cocktail combines gin, Campari, and vermouth rosso with tonic water or sparkling wine to create a long and light drink that is perfect for any occasion.
The bitter and sweet flavors of the Negroni are balanced by the fizziness of the tonic water or sparkling wine, making it a delightful and interesting cocktail. The garnish of a thinly sliced piece of orange adds a touch of sophistication to the drink. If you're looking for a new way to enjoy a classic Italian cocktail, the Negroni Fizz is definitely worth a try.
14. Campari and Soda
Campari and Soda is a classic Italian cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. This two-ingredient cocktail is made with Campari, an Italian liqueur that has a bitter flavor with strong notes of citrus, herbs, and spices. The club soda adds a bubbly texture to the cocktail, making it a refreshing and light drink.
This cocktail is an aperitif, which means it is usually consumed before a meal to stimulate the appetite. Campari and Soda is a great choice for those who enjoy bitter and refreshing cocktails. Try this classic Italian cocktail and experience the perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness.
15. The Italian American
"The Italian American" is a unique Italian craft cocktail that combines American bourbon with two classic Italian bitter liqueurs, Amaro Montenegro and Campari. A splash of maple syrup and lemon juice create a smooth and mellow yet slightly bitter libation.
Amaro Montenegro liqueur, with its complex balance of flavors including floral notes, herbs, spice, and citrus, is the star ingredient in this cocktail. It tames and tempers the bourbon in a way that Campari alone does not. The result is a well-rounded and simply delicious drink that is sure to impress.
16. Aperol Sour
The Aperol Sour is a refreshing Italian Craft Cocktail that is perfect for summer sipping. Made with Aperol, a bittersweet Italian aperitif that is less aggressive than Campari, this cocktail is a beautiful orange-red color that is sure to catch your eye. The addition of gin adds complexity to the drink, while grapefruit and lavender bitters balance it out.
The foam on top of the cocktail adds a beautiful presentation to the drink. If you're looking for a vegan-friendly option, aquafaba can be used instead of egg white. Overall, the Aperol Sour is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a delicious and refreshing drink.
17. Limoncello Martini
The Limoncello Martini is a delightful Italian craft cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with a combination of vodka, Limoncello, lemon juice, and lemonade, this cocktail is full of refreshing lemon flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.
It's easy to make and takes only a few minutes to prepare, making it a great choice for those who want a quick and delicious drink. Whether you're looking for a cocktail to enjoy on a warm summer day or a refreshing drink to sip on during the winter months, the Limoncello Martini is a must-try Italian craft cocktail.
18. Amaretto Sour
The Amaretto Sour is a classic Italian cocktail that has been given a modern twist by Jeffrey Morgenthaler. This cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet amaretto liqueur, sour citrus, and high proof bourbon that gives it a smooth and rich flavor. The addition of egg white creates a creamy, merengue-like froth that adds a unique texture to the drink.
The cocktail has a bad reputation for being too sweet and low in alcohol, but this improved version is perfect for both new and experienced drinkers. The Amaretto Sour is a must-try for those who love Italian craft cocktails and want to experience a modern twist on a classic drink.
19. Grapefruit Spritz Cocktail
The Grapefruit Spritz Cocktail is a refreshing and bubbly Italian Craft Cocktail that's perfect for brunch or a date night. It's a twist on the traditional Aperol Spritz, with tangy grapefruit juice, aperol, and Prosecco.
The cocktail is low in alcohol and easy to drink, with a herbal backbone and a hint of bitterness. The fragrant citrus aroma from the grapefruit zest adds a nice touch.
20. Elderflower Aperol Spritz
The Elderflower Aperol Spritz is a delightful twist on a classic Italian cocktail. With its subtle floral notes and balanced bitter and bubbly flavors, it's perfect for sipping on a warm, sunny day or when you want to transport yourself to the Amalfi Coast or the South of France.
The addition of elderflower liqueur gives it a unique and delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with champagne. This cocktail is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any brunch or cocktail party. Don't miss out on trying this refreshing and sophisticated drink that will transport you to the heart of Italy.
21. Classic Aperol Spritz
The Classic Aperol Spritz is a refreshing Italian cocktail made with only three ingredients – Aperol, prosecco, and club soda. Aperol is an Italian bitter aperitif liqueur that gives the drink its distinct flavor of bitter and sweet oranges, rhubarb, and different herbs and roots.
The cocktail is slightly bitter, yet sweet, with a flavor of oranges and herbs. It's perfect for warm weather and is often enjoyed as an aperitif before a meal. The Classic Aperol Spritz is a great cocktail to serve at parties or gatherings, and it's easy to make in large batches.
22. Holiday Elderflower Prosecco Cocktail
The Holiday Elderflower Prosecco Cocktail is a perfect addition to any festive occasion. This Italian Craft Cocktail is a delightful blend of Prosecco, vodka, and elderflower liquor, which gives it a light and floral taste. The sugared cranberries and sugar rim give it a festive look that is sure to impress your guests.
The sugared cranberries are soaked in a simple syrup and then rolled in sugar to give them a sweet and tart flavor that complements the cocktail perfectly. The sugar rim enhances the floral flavor of the elderflower liquor and adds a touch of elegance to the drink. Overall, the Holiday Elderflower Prosecco Cocktail is a must-try Italian Craft Cocktail that is perfect for any holiday gathering.
23. Bitter Giuseppe
If you're a fan of complex bitter flavors, then the Bitter Giuseppe is a must-try Italian craft cocktail. This low-alcohol cocktail gets its bitterness from the Italian amaro Cynar, a herbaceous artichoke-based liqueur that might not be for everyone. However, when combined with sweet vermouth, a little bit of lemon juice, and a few dashes of orange bitters, the bitterness is perfectly balanced.
Originating from The Violet Hour in Chicago, the Bitter Giuseppe is the type of cocktail you'll want to sip and savor. It's a great aperitif and a regular part of many cocktail rotations. So, if you're looking for a new and interesting cocktail to try, give the Bitter Giuseppe a chance.
24. Amarena Cherry
One of the best Italian Craft Cocktails that you should definitely try is the Amarena Cherry cocktail. This cocktail is made with Amarena cherries, which are small and dark with a tart and delicious flavor. They are usually bottled in syrup and used as a decoration on rich chocolate desserts.
The Amarena Cherry cocktail is a luxurious drink that is perfect for those who love sweet and fruity flavors. It is a perfect blend of sweet and sour flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. If you are looking for a cocktail that is both refreshing and delicious, then the Amarena Cherry cocktail is definitely worth trying.
