Summertime in Italy means bright sunshine, warm breeze, and the sound of the waves crashing on the shore. It's the perfect time to relax and unwind with a refreshing drink in hand.
Italians have a long history of crafting delicious beverages that perfectly complement the season. From the classic spritz to the lesser-known sgroppino, there's a cocktail for every taste bud.
The secret to Italian summer cocktails is the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Italians are known for their love of farm-to-table cuisine, and this philosophy extends to their drinks as well.
Fresh fruits, herbs, and spices are used to create unique flavor combinations that are sure to transport you to a sunny Italian beach.
Whether you're looking for a light and bubbly drink to cool down on a hot day or something a bit stronger to sip on as the sun sets, Italian summer cocktails have got you covered.
So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of Italian mixology.
1. Sgroppino
Sgroppino is a refreshing Italian cocktail that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Originating in Venice, this cocktail is a perfect blend of Prosecco, vodka, and frozen lemon sorbet. Served in champagne flutes, this cocktail is not only visually appealing but also a perfect summer refresher.
With its sweet and tangy taste, Sgroppino is a perfect dessert drink that can be enjoyed after dinner or during the holidays. This cocktail is easy to make and can be stored in the freezer until ready to serve. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to impress your guests, Sgroppino is definitely worth a try.
2. Cherry & Ginger Prosecco Spritz
The Cherry & Ginger Prosecco Spritz is a delightful Italian summer cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. Made with Riondo Prosecco, this light and refreshing cocktail is perfect for any day of the week. The cocktail is infused with the flavors of fresh cherries, orange, and ginger beer, and has a slight bitter aftertaste from the Italian aperitif.
The muddled cherries add a touch of sweetness to the cocktail, while the ginger beer gives it a slight kick. The Riondo Prosecco adds a bubbly and crisp finish to the cocktail, making it perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. Overall, the Cherry & Ginger Prosecco Spritz is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a refreshing and unique summer drink.
3. Aperol Spritz Cocktail
The Aperol Spritz Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for the summer season. With just three simple ingredients, this cocktail is a great option for those who want to enjoy the flavors of Italy at home. The combination of Aperol, sparkling wine, and a splash of sparkling water or club soda creates a deliciously light and bubbly drink that is sure to please.
Garnish with an orange slice, strawberries, mint slices, or even green olives for a touch of Italian flair. Whether you're enjoying it with a light Italian-inspired meal or sipping it on its own, the Aperol Spritz Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of summer in Italy.
4. Garibaldi Cocktail
The Garibaldi Cocktail is a refreshing Italian drink made with Campari and fresh squeezed orange juice. The frothy foam on top of the drink is achieved by blending the orange juice.
The cocktail is named after Giuseppe Garibaldi, a general who contributed to the unification of Italy. The bright red-orange color of the drink makes it perfect for parties, and the tangy, bitter, and sweet notes of the cocktail make it a delight to drink.
5. Negroni Granita
The Negroni Granita is a perfect summer cocktail for those looking for something icy and boozy. Made with equal parts Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth, this Italian aperitif is infused with herbs and fruit that gives bitter notes of cherry and orange.
The addition of fresh orange juice and cherry juice enhances the Campari flavors and gives the cocktail a slightly sweet taste. The texture is icy and flaky, making it a welcomed treat for hot summer days. The Negroni Granita is a must-try for Negroni fans and those looking for a refreshing summer cocktail.
6. Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian cocktail that is perfect for summer. Made with Aperol, a popular Italian bitter aperitivo liqueur, and Prosecco, this cocktail is refreshing and bright orange in color. It's a perfect drink to enjoy during happy hour or anytime in the afternoon.
The Aperol Spritz is easy to make and can be served with any appetizers or snacks, especially Italian ones. If you're looking for a new summer cocktail to try, the Aperol Spritz is definitely worth a taste. Its popularity in Italy is a testament to its deliciousness and refreshing taste.
7. Limoncello Spritz
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make Italian summer cocktail? Look no further than the Limoncello Spritz! This cocktail is a perfect combination of tangy and sweet, with the crispness of prosecco and the zesty flavor of limoncello.
The drink is served over crushed ice and garnished with a slice of lemon, making it the perfect drink to cool down on a hot summer day. With only three ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and perfect for entertaining guests. So why not transport yourself to Southern Italy with a delicious Limoncello Spritz?
8. Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco
The Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco is a refreshing and delicious Italian summer cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh muddled raspberries, Limoncello, and Prosecco, this cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors that will leave you wanting more. The addition of lemon garnish adds a nice touch to the overall presentation of the drink.
This cocktail is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite sparkling wine. It is a perfect drink for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a relaxing evening at home. If you are looking for a summer cocktail that is both delicious and refreshing, then the Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco is definitely worth a try.
9. Campari and Soda
Campari and Soda is a classic Italian cocktail made with Campari, an Italian liqueur with a bitter taste and strong notes of citrus, herbs, and spice. The cocktail is perfect for a hot summer day and is a great aperitif meant to stimulate the appetite before a meal.
The club soda adds a bubbly texture to the cocktail, making it refreshing and easy to drink. It's a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that's worth trying.
10. Hugo Spritz Cocktail
The Hugo Spritz Cocktail is a refreshing and light summer drink that originated in the Tyrol region of Italy. It is a twist on the classic spritz cocktail, replacing Aperol with elderflower syrup, which gives it a unique floral flavor. The cocktail is made with Prosecco, elderflower liqueur, and soda water in a 3:2:1 ratio.
It is typically garnished with lime slices and fresh mint, making it a perfect drink to enjoy on a hot summer day. The Hugo Spritz is a great alternative to the more common Aperol or limoncello spritz, and is sure to delight anyone who tries it.
11. Americano Cocktail
Looking for a classic Italian cocktail that's perfect for summer sipping? Look no further than the Americano cocktail. This bittersweet drink is made with Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water, and has been a favorite in Italy for over a century. Originally known as the Milano-Torino, the cocktail was renamed after American tourists fell in love with it in the 1920s and 30s.
It's even been immortalized in the James Bond franchise, with 007 himself declaring it the perfect drink for a café. If you're a fan of bitter flavors, the Americano is a must-try. So why not mix one up and transport yourself to an Italian piazza this summer?
12. Limoncello Prosecco With Blueberries and Thyme
If you're looking for a refreshing Italian Summer Cocktail to cool off with, Limoncello Prosecco with Blueberries and Thyme is a must-try. This cocktail is perfect for any celebration, with just the right amount of sparkling lemony goodness, plus blueberries and thyme to add a unique twist.
The combination of limoncello and prosecco creates a light, bubbly drink that's perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. The addition of blueberries and thyme not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor of the cocktail. This drink is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. So why not celebrate with this Italian-inspired cocktail and enjoy the endless summer vibes?
13. Italian Paloma
The Italian Paloma is a refreshing and zesty twist on the classic Paloma cocktail. This tequila-based drink is mixed with citrus juices and Campari, giving it a unique Italian flare. The addition of orange soda and Campari perfectly balance the bitter and sweet flavors, making it a perfect summer cocktail for any occasion.
The beautiful pink color of the drink is sure to catch the eye of anyone looking for a refreshing and Instagram-worthy cocktail. If you're a fan of tequila and looking for a new summer cocktail to try, the Italian Paloma is definitely worth a taste!
14. Italian Spritz
The Italian Spritz is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that is perfect for summer. With just three simple ingredients, this classic drink is a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of Italy.
The bright orange color and bubbly texture make it a great choice for warm weather, and the unique bitter orange flavor of Aperol adds a delicious twist to the traditional wine cocktail. Whether you're enjoying it on a patio with friends or sipping it alone, the Italian Spritz is sure to transport you to a sunny Italian vacation. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
15. Peach Bellini Cocktail
The Peach Bellini Cocktail is a classic Italian summer drink that is perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh peach puree and Italian Prosecco, this cocktail is sweet, fruity, and refreshing. The delicate flavor of the drink makes it an excellent choice for a welcome drink or a summer cocktail.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be served in stemless wine glasses for a rustic feel or in flutes for special occasions. The peach puree can be frozen and used later to make more cocktails or added to smoothies, desserts, or served over ice cream. If you're looking for a delicious summer cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Peach Bellini Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
16. Spritz
The Spritz is a classic Italian summer cocktail that is perfect for those who love a bitter and refreshing drink. Made with Campari, prosecco, and sparkling water, this cocktail is garnished with fresh strawberries and oranges, making it not only delicious but also visually stunning.
While it is more bitter than an Aperol Spritz, it is just as refreshing and perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. The Spritz is a great choice for those who want a simple and easy-to-make cocktail that doesn't require any fancy ingredients or techniques. If you're looking for a refreshing and bitter cocktail to enjoy this summer, the Spritz is definitely worth trying.
17. Hugo Cocktail
The Hugo Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make Italian aperitivo that is perfect for summer. Made with only three ingredients – prosecco, elderflower syrup, and sparkling water – this cocktail has a crisp and musky flavor that is both sweet and palate-cleansing. Originating in northern Italy, the Hugo Cocktail is also known as the Hugo Spritz or elderflower spritz.
It is a great alternative to the traditional Aperol spritz and can be garnished with mint and lime wedges to add an extra layer of freshness. Whether you're looking for a pre-dinner cocktail or a refreshing drink to enjoy on a hot summer day, the Hugo Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
18. Hugo Spritz
The Hugo Spritz is a sparkling elderflower cocktail that will transport you straight to Italy in the summertime. This refreshing aperitif has a delicate and irresistible flavor profile that will leave you wanting more. The best part?
It's incredibly easy to make and can be served as a single serving or in a pitcher for a group. The combination of elderflower, mint, and lime makes for a perfect warm-weather drink that can be enjoyed at any time. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and refreshing Italian summer cocktail.
19. Campari Spritz
Campari Spritz is a refreshing Italian summer cocktail that is perfect for those who love bold and bitter flavors. Made with Campari, Prosecco, and a splash of club soda, this cocktail is a twist on the classic Aperol Spritz. Campari is a crimson-colored Italian liqueur with strong notes of citrus, herbs, and light spice.
While it is bitter in flavor, it is perfect for those who enjoy a stronger drink. The Campari Spritz is typically served as an aperitif before a meal to stimulate the appetite. This cocktail can be served in a rocks glass, stemless wine glass, or even a wine glass. With just three simple ingredients, the Campari Spritz is a quick and easy cocktail to whip up for any summer occasion.
20. Limoncello Martini
The Limoncello Martini is a refreshing Italian Summer Cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This cocktail is a twist on the classic lemon drop martini, with limoncello liquor taking center stage. The combination of vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup creates a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The Limoncello Martini is a beautifully golden cocktail that is fantastically sippable.
It is perfect for serving as an aperitif, during cocktail hour, or as a late-night drink with friends. The cocktail is best enjoyed chilled and can be paired with crunchy, savory snacks or enjoyed on its own. If you're looking for a cocktail that adds a special Italian flair to your bar cart, the Limoncello Martini is the perfect choice.
21. Aperol Tonic Cocktail
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail for those long, hot summer days? Look no further than the Aperol Tonic Cocktail. This Italian-inspired drink combines the bitter-sweet flavors of Aperol liqueur with the crisp taste of tonic water, resulting in a perfect balance of flavors.
A splash of orange juice and a slice of orange garnish add a fruity note to the cocktail, making it a great choice for those who prefer a less sweet drink. Best served on the rocks, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening. Whether you're looking for a solo drink or a batch to share with friends, the Aperol Tonic Cocktail is a must-try for any cocktail lover.
22. The Italian American
The Italian American is a delightful summer cocktail that combines the bold flavors of bourbon with two classic Italian bitter liqueurs, Amaro Montenegro and Campari. The addition of maple syrup and lemon juice gives it a smooth, mellow yet slightly bitter taste that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
Amaro Montenegro liqueur, with its bittersweet taste and complex balance of flavors, is the star ingredient that tames and tempers the bourbon in a way that Campari alone cannot. The result is a well-rounded and simply delicious cocktail that is sure to impress. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing summer drink, The Italian American is definitely worth a try.
23. Elderflower Aperol Spritz
Looking for a refreshing and unique Italian summer cocktail? Look no further than the Elderflower Aperol Spritz. This twist on the classic Aperol Spritz adds a touch of floral with the addition of elderflower liqueur. The result is a perfectly balanced cocktail that is both bitter and bubbly, with subtle floral notes that are sure to please any palate.
The use of dry sparkling wine instead of prosecco helps to balance out the bitter flavors of the Aperol, making this cocktail the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you're sipping it on a warm summer day or enjoying it at a cocktail party, the Elderflower Aperol Spritz is sure to become your new go-to Italian summer cocktail.
24. Sage Ginger Limoncello Cocktail
The Sage Ginger Limoncello Cocktail is a refreshing and flavorful Italian summer cocktail that is sure to impress. Made with homemade limoncello liqueur and a homemade sage and ginger simple syrup, this cocktail packs a punch of flavor without being too sweet or overly citrusy.
The bruised sage leaves and inch of peeled ginger root add a unique twist to this classic Italian cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for a hot summer day or a relaxing evening with friends. If you're looking for a new and exciting Italian cocktail to try, the Sage Ginger Limoncello Cocktail is definitely worth a taste.
25. Lingonberry Aperol Spritz
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique Italian Summer Cocktail, the Lingonberry Aperol Spritz is a must-try. This twist on the classic Aperol Spritz incorporates lingonberry syrup, which adds a sweet and sour flavor to the drink.
Lingonberry, a staple in Scandinavian cuisine, complements the orange in the Aperol, creating a delicious and refreshing berry-like taste.
This cocktail is perfect for entertaining guests and adding a touch of Finland to your summer gatherings.
The bright orange color of the Aperol and the addition of soda water make it a perfect summer drink.
Overall, the Lingonberry Aperol Spritz is a unique and delicious cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
Give it a try and let us know what you think!
