Garden Limoncello Spritz

I've been making my own limoncello for about five years, and it has opened up a whole world of infused spirits and liquors. This bubbly limoncello spritz is a refreshing twist on the classic Aperol spritz--it might be the perfect summer cocktail!

The ideal balance of bright lemon flavor, Italian sparkling wine, and fresh herbs make this ideal for warm weather. Whip up this limoncello spritz for front porch hangs or easy garden brunches. Ready to get started? Comenciamo!

What is a Limoncello Spritz?

The Limoncello Spritz is a light drink that can be enjoyed on a hot summer day. This delicious drink has simple ingredients: limoncello, prosecco, sparkling water, and lemon.

How do you make limoncello?

Limoncello is a sweet Italian lemon liqueur that originates in the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy. It has a blast of citrus with a pleasant sweetness made with lemon zest, high-grain alcohol, and simple syrup.

I take lemon peels, infuse them in vodka or high-proof alcohol for a few months, and then finish with sugar syrup. Its high alcohol content makes it shelf stable and is best kept in the freezer, but I only sip on a shot glass at a time! It's a great after-dinner drink.

Why you'll love this Italian spritz recipe!

First, this Italian spritz is light and refreshing. It's perfect for summertime sipping. Second, it only requires three ingredients.  

The Limoncello Spritz is a variation of the Aperol Spritz, an Italian cocktail made with Campari and Prosecco.

This limoncello spritz cocktail is a fantastic summer drink. It's perfect for sipping poolside or enjoying a summer wedding. The lemon flavor is refreshing, and the bubbly prosecco adds just the right amount of sweetness. This drink is simple to make and sure to be a hit with your guests!

What is a good spritz ratio to use?

A good spritz ratio is 3:2:1. Which means 3 parts sparkling white wine, 2 parts limoncello, and 1 part soda water.

Ingredients

The ingredients for a Limoncello Spritz are:

• Prosecco
• Limoncello Liqueur:  This Italian liqueur is easy to make but can be found in most liquor stores.
• Sparkling Water
• Lemon Slices
• Ice cubes

Garden Herbs to Add

• Rosemary
• Basil
• Thyme
• Fresh Mint
• Wood Sorrel

Instructions

To a stemmed wine glass filled with ice cubes, pour 2 ounces of limoncello and 3 ounces of your sparkling wine. Top with bubbly water and give it a quick stir. Garnish with a slice of lemon and herbs like this citrusy wood sorrel leaves and serve.

Expert Tip

The general ratio for a spritz drink is 3:2:1 – 3 oz prosecco (or sparkling wine), 2 oz spirit, and 1 oz club soda. An aperitif or digestif like Campari or Aperol will be excellent here. A slightly bitter spirit with lower alcohol content but some sugar to balance the drink.