Limoncello Spritz

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

Boozy and buoyant, the Limoncello Spritz is the perfect summer evening relaxer.

Tailor-made for summertime relaxation, the Limoncello Spritz is a strong, bubbly and bright tipple, featuring the tart and sweet zing of lemons. Originating on the Amalfi Coast, and featuring the famous citrus fruit that grow there, this cocktail is said to have first appeared in 2005. Becoming popular among the tourists that would visit, the drink soon found itself traveling the world.

Whenever I’ve been offered limoncello, it’s usually been at Christmas. In fact, the first time I ever had any was during one of my first winters out here in Los Angeles. We’d go to our friend’s home on Christmas Eve, exchange a few gifts, and then enjoy dinner and each other’s company around a large table. At the end, limoncello was served, chilled in the freezer beforehand. This particular spirit was homemade, and very strong. Who knew lemons could slap you around like that?

I again had the pleasure of making my head fuzzy with this lemony libation this past Christmas. My sister and brother-in-law brought a large bottle of their own limoncello that they made using a potent vodka as the base. We even had Limoncello Spritzes of our own on a few occasions. Some nights, after everyone else went to sleep, I’d pour a few fingers of it while relaxing by the fire. It warmed the belly, make no mistake.

One thing is certain; as much as I love limoncello during the Christmas and winter holidays, I’m going to be enjoying more than a few Limoncello Spritzes poolside this summer. The combination of prosecco, club soda, and the strong kick of a good limoncello sounds like the perfect way to spend a hot and sweaty day.

What is Limoncello?

Hailing from the southern regions of Italy, limoncello is, as its name suggests, a strong, lemon-flavored liqueur. The second–most popular cordial in its country of origin, this tart and sweet treat is traditionally served after a meal as a digestif. That means it’ll help you digest that giant four-course dinner you didn’t really have room for.

What is the Best Prosecco to Use in a Limoncello Spritz?

I have a favorite, go-to prosecco that I love drinking for any special, and even not-so-special occasions. It’s a Coppola Diamond Select extra dry, and I never spend more than fifteen dollars on a bottle. These are usually found at most grocery stores, but if you can’t find any near you or online, any fairly priced dry prosecco, even a blanc de blanc, will do nicely. You don’t want your bubbly to be too sweet, as it can clash with and overwhelm the other flavors.

What kind of glassware and garnish are used?

A long-stemmed champagne flute or goblet is the ideal vessel for your Limoncello Spritz, garnished with a few slices of lemon and a sprig of fresh mint.

How strong is limoncello?

This often depends on the base spirit used. Limoncello tends to clock in at around 56 to 64 proof. Some folks will use a higher-proof grain alcohol or vodka when making their own at home, so the proof numbers can be even stronger.

Similar Cocktails to the Limoncello Spritz

I could drink bright, bubbly, and fresh cocktails like the Limoncello Spritz on any occasion. If you want to make any gathering or event unforgettable—even if it’s just brunch with friends—Twist & Toast has some of the tastiest recipes to keep you refreshed and invigorated. Check out just a few of them here.

• Classic Mimosa – You know it, you love it, now here’s the perfect recipe for you to make one at home.
• French 76 – Bright and citrusy, this vodka-based cocktail is topped with bubbly prosecco.
• Negroni Sbagliato – Instead of gin, this Campari-flavored treat is mixed with sparkling wine.
• Sparkling Rose Margarita – Your margarita gets a fizzy addition in this spicy, bubble-laden drink.