Did you know that Italy consumes approximately 45 million gallons of wine every year, making it one of the world’s top wine producers and drinkers?
With iconic drinks like Aperol Spritz and Negroni gaining popularity globally, Italy’s influence in the world of alcohol isn’t just local—it’s monumental.
This tradition of crafting and enjoying unique beverages is woven into Italian culture and identity.
Ready to dive into Italy’s rich history of popular drinks and discover the unique flavors that continue to shape its vibrant social life?
Let’s explore Italy’s iconic alcoholic drinks together.
Popular Italian Alcoholic drinks
Here are the 30 best alcoholic drinks from Italy. Also explore the Alcoholic drinks starting with Z.
1. Aperol Spritz
An iconic Italian aperitif, Aperol Spritz combines Aperol, Prosecco, and a splash of soda water. It’s light, refreshing, and slightly bitter, with only 11% alcohol content, making it ideal for socializing. Often garnished with an orange slice, it’s Italy’s favorite go-to drink for warm afternoons.
2. Negroni
The Negroni is a classic cocktail with a rich, bitter taste, made by mixing equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Originating in Florence, it’s typically served over ice with an orange twist. With an alcohol content around 24%, this drink is bold and perfect as an aperitif.
3. Limoncello
Limoncello is a popular Italian liqueur from the Amalfi Coast, made by infusing lemon zest in alcohol, then mixing with water and sugar. Its vibrant yellow color and strong citrus flavor make it perfect as a digestif, typically served chilled, with an alcohol content around 25-30%.
4. Campari Soda
Campari Soda is a simple, pre-mixed Italian aperitivo, combining Campari with soda. With 10% alcohol content, it’s lightly bitter and best served over ice. First bottled in 1932, it’s often enjoyed before meals and is especially popular in the summertime.
5. Prosecco
Prosecco, Italy’s renowned sparkling wine, hails from the Veneto region. It’s light, fruity, and slightly sweet, with 11-12% alcohol content, making it ideal for toasts or as an aperitivo. Known for its fine bubbles, it’s commonly served in cocktails like the Bellini.
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6. Grappa
Grappa, a traditional Italian spirit, is made by distilling grape pomace left after winemaking. With an alcohol content ranging from 35-60%, it’s strong, earthy, and often served after meals to aid digestion. Regional varieties offer unique flavors based on local grapes.
7. Amaro
Amaro is a popular Italian herbal liqueur with a bittersweet taste. Typically enjoyed after meals as a digestif, it’s made by infusing herbs, roots, and spices in alcohol. Alcohol content varies between 16-40%, and each region has its own distinctive version, like Amaro Averna and Fernet.
8. Bellini
The Bellini, created in Venice, is a cocktail of Prosecco and white peach purée. Light and fruity, it’s ideal for brunch or an aperitivo, with an alcohol content of around 8-10%. Its origin dates back to 1948, and it remains a popular celebratory drink.
9. Frangelico
Frangelico is a hazelnut liqueur from Piedmont, Italy, with a warm, nutty flavor. At 20% alcohol, it’s commonly enjoyed on the rocks, in coffee, or as a dessert ingredient. The bottle, shaped like a monk, pays homage to the ancient monastic origins of Italian liqueurs.
10. Amaretto
This almond-flavored liqueur, originally from Saronno, Italy, has a sweet, nutty taste and 28% alcohol content. Amaretto can be sipped alone, mixed into cocktails, or used in desserts. Legend says it was a gift from a young woman to a painter in 1525.
11. Vin Santo
Vin Santo, meaning “Holy Wine,” is a dessert wine from Tuscany made with dried grapes. Sweet and smooth, it pairs well with biscotti. With an alcohol content around 14-17%, it’s often aged in wooden barrels, adding caramel and nutty notes to its flavor.
12. Martini
The classic Martini, originating from Italy, combines gin and vermouth with an olive or lemon twist. Italy’s Martini & Rossi is a famous vermouth producer. With an average alcohol content of 20-30%, it’s elegant, sophisticated, and popular worldwide as an aperitivo.
13. Chianti
Chianti, a famous red wine from Tuscany, is known for its dry, fruity flavor. Made from Sangiovese grapes, it’s an Italian favorite for pairing with pasta and meats. Alcohol content typically ranges from 12-14%, and it’s bottled in the classic, round-bottomed flask.
14. Sambuca
Sambuca is a strong, anise-flavored liqueur with 38% alcohol content, often served with coffee beans for “con la mosca” tradition. Typically clear or blue, it’s enjoyed as a digestif. Adding water transforms its color, creating a cloudy effect known as the “louche.”
15. Americano
The Americano cocktail, blending Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water, is light, refreshing, and a bit bitter, with 9-10% alcohol content. Served with an orange slice, it was created in Milan and became a favorite aperitivo, especially in the 20th century.
16. Barolo
Barolo is a strong red wine from Italy’s Piedmont region, made from Nebbiolo grapes. Known for its robust flavor and aging potential, it typically has an alcohol content of 13-15%. Often called “the king of wines,” it pairs excellently with hearty Italian dishes.
17. Vermouth
Vermouth is a fortified wine infused with botanicals, popular as both an aperitivo and a cocktail ingredient. With 15-18% alcohol content, Italian vermouth varieties range from dry to sweet, with Martini and Cinzano as notable brands. It’s also essential in Negroni and Martini cocktails.
18. Lambrusco
Lambrusco is a sparkling red wine from Emilia-Romagna, Italy, known for its fruity, slightly sweet taste and light fizz. With an alcohol content around 10-12%, it’s enjoyed chilled and pairs well with Italian antipasti. Its popularity has risen in recent years for casual sipping.
19. Strega
Strega is a yellow herbal liqueur with 40% alcohol content, made with over 70 herbs and spices. Known for its bright color from saffron, it has a complex, slightly sweet taste. Originating in Benevento, it’s traditionally served as a digestif or mixed in cocktails.
20. Moretti Beer
Birra Moretti, an Italian lager, has a mild, malty flavor and a light 4.6% alcohol content. First brewed in 1859, it’s a classic choice for casual drinking and pairs well with Italian food. The iconic label features an image of a mustached man enjoying a pint.
21. Asti Spumante
Asti Spumante is a sweet, sparkling white wine from Asti, Piedmont, known for its fruity flavor and low alcohol content around 7-9%. Made from Moscato grapes, it’s perfect for celebrations and pairs well with desserts. Its light bubbles make it refreshing and enjoyable.
22. Nocino
Nocino is a dark walnut liqueur from Emilia-Romagna with 40% alcohol content. Made by infusing green walnuts in alcohol with spices, it has a rich, nutty flavor and is typically enjoyed as a digestif. Traditionally, walnuts are picked on June 24th, the Feast of St. John.
23. Trebbiano
Trebbiano is one of Italy’s most common white wines, offering a crisp, light flavor. With 11-13% alcohol content, it’s easy-drinking and pairs well with seafood. Though simple, its refreshing quality makes it popular across Italy, and it’s a versatile choice for casual meals.
24. Brunello di Montalcino
Brunello di Montalcino is a prestigious red wine from Tuscany, made from Sangiovese grapes. With 13-15% alcohol, it’s known for its full-bodied, intense flavor and is aged for at least five years. It pairs excellently with meat and Italian cuisine, embodying elegance and tradition.
25. Bellavista Franciacorta
Franciacorta is Italy’s answer to Champagne, a sparkling wine from Lombardy. Bellavista is a top producer, offering bottles with 12.5% alcohol content. Known for its fine bubbles and complex flavor, it’s a luxurious choice for celebrations or as an aperitivo.
26. Bombardino
A popular winter drink, Bombardino combines brandy, egg liqueur, and whipped cream, served warm. It’s creamy, sweet, and has an alcohol content around 18-20%, perfect for cold ski days in the Alps. Its name means “bomb,” fitting its rich, indulgent flavor.
27. Cynar
Cynar is an artichoke-based bitter liqueur with 16.5% alcohol content. Known for its earthy, vegetal taste, it’s often enjoyed as an aperitivo or in cocktails like the Cynar Spritz. Its unique flavor comes from artichokes, herbs, and botanicals, creating a balanced, slightly bitter profile.
28. Orvieto
Orvieto is a white wine from Umbria with a dry, crisp flavor and 11-13% alcohol content. Often light and refreshing, it pairs well with Italian seafood dishes. It’s an affordable, popular choice among locals, with a history dating back to ancient Etruscan winemakers.
29. Aperitivo Liqueur
Italian Aperitivo liqueurs like Select and Rabarbaro are flavored with herbs and spices, offering a light, bitter taste. Alcohol content varies, typically around 10-20%. These liqueurs are often served with soda water over ice as a pre-dinner drink to stimulate the appetite.
30. Bicerin
Bicerin is a special drink from Turin that layers espresso, chocolate, and cream. It’s typically non-alcoholic, but some versions add grappa or liqueur for an extra kick. It’s a cozy, rich drink, perfect for winter, and loved for its indulgent, velvety texture.
Italian Orange Alcoholic Drinks
Here are the top 25 orange alcoholic drinks in Italy. Also explore the alcoholic drinks starting with A.
1. Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is an Italian classic, combining Aperol, prosecco, and a splash of soda. Its vibrant orange hue comes from bitter and sweet orange peels, rhubarb, and herbs. With an alcohol content of around 11%, it’s a refreshing, low-alcohol option perfect for summer afternoons.
2. Negroni Sbagliato
This version of the classic Negroni swaps gin for sparkling prosecco, making a lighter, bubbly drink. Its flavors balance bitter Campari, sweet vermouth, and prosecco’s subtle fizz. At about 15% alcohol, it’s a popular aperitivo, perfect for those who enjoy complex, bittersweet flavors.
3. Garibaldi
The Garibaldi, named after Italian hero Giuseppe Garibaldi, is a simple yet bold mix of Campari and fresh orange juice. Its bright orange color mirrors its zesty, bittersweet flavor. With a 25% Campari base, this drink is fruity, fresh, and an easy introduction to Italian bitters.
4. Campari Soda
Campari Soda, pre-mixed in Italy since 1932, offers a convenient way to enjoy Campari’s bitter and aromatic flavors with a touch of fizz. Bottled at a moderate 10% ABV, this is a refreshing, bitter-sweet drink that’s as iconic as its classic conical bottle design.
5. Bellini
Originating in Venice, the Bellini combines peach purée with prosecco, resulting in a lightly sweet, bubbly drink. Its pink-orange hue comes from fresh peaches, and with just around 8-10% alcohol, it’s fruity, refreshing, and ideal for brunch or an early evening toast.
6. Spritz Veneziano
This spritz hails from Venice, blending Select Aperitivo, prosecco, and soda water. The Select Aperitivo provides a unique, bittersweet profile, featuring notes of juniper and rhubarb. Served over ice with an olive, it’s a flavorful and refreshing way to kick off an evening.
7. Americano
The Americano, made with Campari, sweet vermouth, and a splash of soda, is a lightly carbonated cocktail with a robust, bittersweet taste. Originally called the “Milano-Torino,” it’s a low-alcohol choice (around 9%) perfect for sipping slowly before dinner to stimulate the appetite.
8. Aperol Sour
The Aperol Sour mixes Aperol with lemon juice, sugar, and egg white for a frothy, tangy drink. Its mild bitterness is balanced by the sweetness of Aperol and lemon’s tartness. With 11% alcohol, it’s a lighter, refreshing cocktail that’s visually striking with its bright orange color.
9. Pirlo
The Pirlo, popular in Brescia, blends Campari or Aperol with white wine and soda. Known as a more robust version of the Aperol Spritz, its bitter-sweet balance and lighter alcohol content (around 8-10%) make it a favorite aperitivo in northern Italy, particularly on warm evenings.
10. Hugo Spritz
While not orange, the Hugo Spritz sometimes includes Aperol for a twist. Typically made with elderflower liqueur, prosecco, and mint, adding Aperol gives it a fruity, bittersweet edge. Its low alcohol (10-11%) and refreshing profile make it a great alternative to the classic spritz.
11. Mimosa
Though international, the Mimosa is also beloved in Italy, combining equal parts orange juice and prosecco. Its gentle sweetness and effervescence make it an ideal brunch drink. With an ABV of about 7-10%, it’s light and fruity, perfect for early-day celebrations or relaxing afternoons.
12. Ragazzi
The Ragazzi, or Campari with soda, is a straightforward yet flavorful aperitivo. It has a low ABV of about 8-10%, making it a refreshing option for hot days. Its vibrant orange color and bitter profile make it a classic Italian drink for those who enjoy Campari’s boldness.
13. Lucano Spritz
Using Amaro Lucano, prosecco, and soda, this spritz offers a different bittersweet experience than the traditional Aperol Spritz. Lucano’s herbal flavors shine through, creating a more complex flavor profile. It’s often enjoyed at aperitivo time, with around 10% alcohol and a unique earthy-orange hue.
14. Sbagliato Rosso
The Sbagliato Rosso is a variant of the Negroni Sbagliato, swapping gin for red wine instead of prosecco. With Campari, sweet vermouth, and red wine, it has a bold, slightly bitter, and fruity flavor profile, making it a distinctive aperitivo with a unique red-orange hue.
15. Angelo Azzurro
The Angelo Azzurro is typically a blue drink but can be made orange by swapping the blue curaçao with orange curaçao. It’s a stronger cocktail, mixing gin, orange curaçao, and lemon juice. Its bright color and citrusy bitterness make it a bold choice with around 20% ABV.
16. Orange Martini
The Italian Orange Martini combines vodka or gin with orange liqueur and fresh orange juice. Often enjoyed as an aperitivo, it’s smooth, zesty, and has a higher ABV of 20-25%. Its bright orange color and citrusy flavor make it a favorite for Martini enthusiasts.
17. Sicilian Sunrise
This vibrant drink layers blood orange juice with vodka and a splash of Aperol, giving it a deep orange-red gradient. The flavors are bold and tangy, with an ABV of around 15-20%. It’s visually stunning, evoking Sicily’s beautiful sunrises and the zest of fresh citrus.
18. Margarita Italiana
This Italian twist on the classic Margarita uses Aperol or Campari, tequila, and lime. The Italian ingredients add a unique bitter-sweet layer, complementing the lime’s acidity. With an ABV of 15-20%, it’s a vibrant orange drink that’s refreshing and perfect for a twist on tradition.
19. Venetian Iced Tea
The Venetian Iced Tea blends Aperol, white rum, gin, and orange juice, creating a citrusy, refreshing drink. It’s lighter than other iced teas with an ABV of about 12-15%. Its deep orange color and zesty flavor profile make it a popular choice on hot summer days.
20. Prosecco Sunshine
This light, sparkling drink blends prosecco, orange juice, and a splash of Aperol. With around 8-10% alcohol, it’s perfect for those who love fruity, refreshing flavors. Its sparkling effervescence and bright orange hue make it ideal for brunch or light daytime events.
21. Italian Mule
The Italian Mule uses orange bitters, Aperol, and vodka instead of ginger beer, adding a bitter-citrusy twist to the classic. It’s served in a copper mug, with around 12-15% alcohol content. It’s refreshing, slightly bitter, and a great option for Mule enthusiasts looking for an Italian spin.
22. Mandarino
Mandarino, a liqueur made from mandarin oranges, is enjoyed straight or mixed with soda. With around 30% alcohol, it’s sweet, fragrant, and delivers a pure citrus flavor that’s both refreshing and bold. Its bright color and fruity profile make it a perfect post-meal drink.
23. Cynar Spritz
Using Cynar, an artichoke-based bitter liqueur, with prosecco and soda, the Cynar Spritz offers an earthy twist on the traditional spritz. It has a distinct, bitter flavor and is a bit darker in color, with an alcohol content of about 16%, making it a bold, flavorful aperitivo.
24. Orange Gin Fizz
This gin-based cocktail combines orange liqueur, gin, and lemon juice, with a frothy egg white top. With an ABV of about 20%, it’s a refreshing choice for gin lovers looking for a zesty and creamy cocktail, ideal for spring or summer evenings.
25. Limoncello Spritz
Limoncello, prosecco, and soda come together to create a light and refreshing spritz with a lemony twist. Though not purely orange, it sometimes includes a splash of Aperol for color and complexity. It’s around 8-10% ABV, making it a gentle, sunny drink perfect for warm days.
Italian Coffee Alcohol Drinks
Here are the 30 best coffee drinks in Italy that contain alcoholic content.
1. Caffè Corretto
Caffè Corretto, or “corrected coffee,” pairs a shot of espresso with a splash of grappa, sambuca, or brandy. This drink is popular across Italy for a quick kick, with each region favoring different spirits. The coffee’s robust flavor, enhanced by the alcohol’s warmth, makes it a strong after-meal treat.
2. Irish Coffee (Italian Style)
The Italian twist on Irish Coffee features espresso, Irish whiskey, sugar, and a thick layer of whipped cream. It offers a perfect balance of coffee’s bitterness with the whiskey’s boldness. A warm and comforting drink, it’s ideal for chilly evenings, adding a hint of indulgence and sweetness.
3. Espresso Martini
An Italian favorite at modern cocktail bars, this chic drink mixes vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup. It’s shaken vigorously and served in a martini glass, offering a caffeinated twist on the classic martini. With a rich, frothy top and a smooth taste, it’s both strong and refreshing.
4. Calimero
Calimero combines hot espresso with egg yolk and a splash of brandy or rum. Originating as a breakfast energy boost, the egg provides creamy texture and richness, blending beautifully with the coffee. With a hint of liquor, this drink is both smooth and robust—perfect for adventurous palates.
5. Ammazzacaffè
The “coffee killer” pairs espresso with a strong shot of grappa, amaro, or sambuca, typically enjoyed after the last course. It “kills” the coffee taste while aiding digestion. Italians love this ritual, which marks the end of a satisfying meal and the start of leisurely conversation.
6. Caffè Borghetti
Caffè Borghetti is a popular Italian coffee liqueur crafted from espresso and alcohol. With hints of dark chocolate and vanilla, it has a smooth texture and rich coffee flavor. Enjoyed straight or over ice, it’s a perfect post-meal sipper, known for its heritage and balanced taste.
7. Sambuca con la Mosca
A unique way to enjoy Sambuca, this drink adds three espresso beans (“flies”) representing health, happiness, and prosperity. The beans’ bitterness contrasts the sweet, anise-flavored Sambuca, creating a complex flavor profile. It’s traditionally enjoyed neat, igniting all senses in a memorable Italian ritual.
8. Affogato al Caffè
This dessert-drink combines a scoop of vanilla gelato or ice cream with a shot of hot espresso, melting into creamy perfection. Sometimes, a splash of amaretto or coffee liqueur is added for extra warmth. Affogato is a crowd-pleaser, balancing coffee’s intensity with the ice cream’s sweetness.
9. Shakerato
The Italian Shakerato is made by shaking freshly brewed espresso, ice, and simple syrup until frothy and cold. Occasionally, a splash of Baileys or Amaretto is added for extra flavor. This refreshing drink is perfect for hot afternoons, offering a smooth balance of sweetness and bitterness.
10. Caffè al Ginseng
Caffè al Ginseng combines espresso with ginseng extract, often served with a splash of milk or liqueur. This drink provides both caffeine and ginseng’s revitalizing properties, making it a popular choice in Italian cafés. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and offers an energy boost without the jitters.
11. Bicerin
A layered drink originating from Turin, Bicerin includes espresso, dark chocolate, and cream in a small glass. Traditionally enjoyed without stirring, each layer offers a distinct flavor profile. With a shot of grappa or whiskey, it’s the ultimate comfort drink, rich and smooth, perfect for winter.
12. Caffè al Vino
This specialty drink combines espresso with a small amount of Italian red wine, often from the local region. It’s a surprising blend of bitter coffee with fruity, tannic wine flavors. The combination is bold, unusual, and appealing to those with a taste for experimenting.
13. Riviera Caffè
Inspired by the Italian Riviera, this drink combines espresso with a shot of limoncello. The coffee’s bitterness balances the limoncello’s bright citrusy sweetness. A refreshing twist on classic espresso, it’s ideal for those looking to bring a touch of seaside spirit to their coffee.
14. Bombardino
A winter classic from the Italian Alps, Bombardino blends brandy, egg liqueur, and hot espresso, topped with whipped cream. This creamy, warming drink is a skier’s favorite, often enjoyed après-ski. It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for chilly weather, delivering warmth and a sweet coffee buzz.
15. Espresso Amaretto
Espresso Amaretto pairs a shot of espresso with a splash of almond-flavored Amaretto liqueur. The drink’s nutty sweetness complements the coffee’s bitterness, creating a balanced, velvety experience. Simple yet delightful, it’s a great post-dinner choice to enjoy Italian flavors in a single sip.
16. Caffè Medici
A layered espresso drink with chocolate syrup, orange zest, and a splash of brandy or Cointreau. Originally from Florence, the Caffè Medici is rich and aromatic, balancing bitterness with sweetness and a hint of citrus. It’s an exciting choice for coffee lovers looking for something unusual.
17. Caffè alla Valdostana
An alpine drink, Caffè alla Valdostana blends espresso, grappa, sugar, and spices, traditionally served in a shared wooden cup. Often enjoyed around a fireplace, it’s a warming and communal experience. The flavor is rich, earthy, and perfect for snowy evenings with family and friends.
18. Frangelico Coffee
This cozy drink features espresso mixed with Frangelico, a hazelnut-flavored liqueur. The nuttiness of the Frangelico pairs perfectly with the coffee’s robustness, offering a warm and comforting flavor. It’s best served after dinner, providing a sweet, nutty finish to a satisfying meal.
19. Moretto
Moretto combines hot espresso with a touch of dark rum, sugar, and lemon zest. This drink has a complex flavor profile, balancing sweetness with the tartness of the lemon zest. It’s smooth, rich, and makes an excellent choice for those who enjoy their coffee with a hint of intrigue.
20. Ristretto
Ristretto is a concentrated espresso shot made with very little water, giving it a bold flavor and strong caffeine boost. Italians sometimes add a splash of grappa or other spirits for added warmth. This potent drink offers pure coffee essence, making it an experience for dedicated coffee enthusiasts.
21. Caffè Marocchino
A popular Italian espresso drink, Caffè Marocchino includes a shot of espresso, a splash of cocoa powder, and a frothy layer of milk. Sometimes, a hint of liqueur is added for richness. It’s a comforting treat with balanced bitterness and sweetness, perfect for a midday pick-me-up.
22. Coretto Grappa
Another version of Caffè Corretto, Coretto Grappa specifically combines espresso with a shot of grappa. This variation is popular in Northern Italy, where grappa is widely produced. It offers a bracing kick, with the coffee’s flavor balanced by grappa’s distinct, robust profile.
23. Amaretto Caffè
This sweet and nutty drink pairs espresso with amaretto, often topped with whipped cream. The almond flavor from amaretto complements the coffee’s bitterness, creating a smooth, dessert-like drink. It’s enjoyed slowly, ideal for an after-dinner treat with a hint of Italian sweetness.
24. Baileys Espresso
Baileys Espresso blends creamy Baileys Irish Cream with a hot shot of espresso. It’s a rich, dessert-like drink, perfect for those who enjoy sweetness in their coffee. The creaminess of Baileys combines beautifully with espresso’s bold flavor, resulting in a smooth and indulgent experience.
25. Caffè Granita with Rum
A summer favorite, Caffè Granita is a slushy espresso drink, often enhanced with a splash of rum. Served icy cold, it’s refreshing and perfect for warm weather. The rum adds warmth to the icy coffee, creating a unique contrast that makes this drink both refreshing and intriguing.
26. Italian Coffee with Marsala
This unique drink blends espresso with Marsala wine, giving it a sweet, nutty flavor. Marsala’s depth complements the coffee, making it a well-rounded drink. Often enjoyed with a biscotti, this drink is both sophisticated and comforting, showcasing Italy’s love for blending coffee and spirits.
27. Espresso Romano
Espresso Romano combines espresso with a hint of lemon and sometimes a splash of limoncello. The lemon’s citrus notes enhance the coffee’s bold flavor, creating a refreshing and balanced drink. It’s a lighter option for coffee lovers, perfect for a refreshing twist on traditional espresso.
28. Rum Caffè Latte
A creamy and sweetened latte with a touch of dark rum, this drink combines espresso, steamed milk, and a dash of rum. It’s smooth, comforting, and slightly indulgent, making it a delicious choice for coffee drinkers who enjoy a little extra warmth with their latte.
29. Caffè alla Nocciola
Caffè alla Nocciola features espresso blended with hazelnut syrup and sometimes hazelnut liqueur. This nutty and aromatic drink is a favorite in Italy’s southern regions, offering a smooth, creamy flavor profile. It’s best enjoyed as an afternoon treat, offering a balance of sweetness and warmth.
30. Zabaione Espresso
This traditional Italian dessert-drink combines espresso with zabaione, an egg yolk custard, and a splash of Marsala wine. Served hot, it’s thick, creamy, and slightly boozy, making it an indulgent choice for dessert lovers. The drink’s richness pairs wonderfully with the boldness of espresso.
Italian Lemon Alcohol Drinks
Here are the 29 best lemon drinks in Italy that contain alcoholic content.
1. Limoncello
Limoncello, Italy’s famous lemon liqueur, is crafted with Amalfi Coast lemons, sugar, and alcohol, typically at 25-30% ABV. Its vibrant lemon flavor, slightly sweet, is best enjoyed chilled as a digestif after a meal. Limoncello’s zingy yet smooth taste makes it a summer favorite across Italy.
2. Sgroppino
A Venetian classic, Sgroppino combines vodka, Prosecco, and lemon sorbet for a refreshing, frothy drink. Lightly alcoholic at around 10-15% ABV, it’s served as a palate cleanser or dessert cocktail. Its creamy, tangy lemon flavor makes it a perfect choice for warm Italian evenings.
3. Limoncello Spritz
Limoncello Spritz pairs Limoncello with Prosecco and a splash of soda, creating a sparkling, zesty aperitif. With around 8-10% ABV, it’s lighter than traditional Limoncello. Its fizzy, lemony profile makes it an ideal pre-dinner drink, especially in summer.
4. Negroni Sbagliato al Limone
A twist on the classic Negroni, this version includes lemon gin, Campari, and Prosecco instead of gin and vermouth. With a 15% ABV, it’s bitter yet refreshing, perfect for Negroni fans craving a lemon-infused variation that adds a citrusy punch.
5. Lemon Prosecco Punch
This punch combines Prosecco, lemon juice, vodka, and fresh mint, resulting in a bubbly, mildly boozy cocktail with a 10-12% ABV. Its bright, lemony flavor balanced by minty notes makes it a refreshing choice for brunches or celebrations.
6. Gin Lemon
A simple Italian favorite, Gin Lemon mixes gin with lemon juice and soda, often garnished with lemon zest. This light cocktail, around 10-12% ABV, is crisp and refreshing. Its tart profile, cut by the gin’s botanicals, makes it a classic summer choice.
7. Italian Lemon Martini
The Italian Lemon Martini blends vodka, Limoncello, and lemon juice for a potent, zesty martini with an ABV of about 20%. Its strong lemon flavor, combined with Limoncello’s sweetness, makes this a refreshing yet punchy cocktail for martini lovers.
8. Lemon Campari Soda
Campari’s bitter notes are balanced by lemon juice and soda in this low-alcohol drink, around 8% ABV. The lemon highlights Campari’s citrus undertones, creating a refreshing aperitif that’s slightly bitter, perfect for those who enjoy lighter cocktails.
9. Citrus Bellini
This twist on the Bellini uses Limoncello and lemon juice mixed with Prosecco. At around 8% ABV, it’s light and bubbly. The lemony zest adds a fresh spin to the classic Bellini, making it an ideal drink for brunch or a celebratory toast.
10. Lemon Sangria
Lemon Sangria features white wine, Limoncello, lemon slices, and fresh mint, with an ABV of about 8-10%. Light and refreshing, this Italian twist on Sangria has a bright, citrusy flavor, perfect for hot days and summer gatherings.
11. Amalfi Mule
This Italian spin on the Moscow Mule combines vodka, Limoncello, and ginger beer. With an ABV around 10%, it’s slightly stronger than a traditional mule. The lemony Limoncello blends with spicy ginger for a unique, refreshing cocktail with Italian flair.
12. Lemon Aperol Spritz
An Italian classic, this variation on the Aperol Spritz uses Limoncello alongside Aperol and Prosecco. At 8-10% ABV, it’s light and effervescent. The lemony sweetness balances Aperol’s bitterness, making it a well-rounded aperitif with a citrus twist.
13. Italian 75
The Italian 75, a spin on the French 75, uses Limoncello, gin, and Prosecco. With an ABV around 12-14%, it’s light and bubbly. The lemony Limoncello brings a sunny, Mediterranean vibe to this cocktail, ideal for celebratory toasts.
14. Lemon Bellini
Using lemon juice and Prosecco, this Bellini variation has an ABV around 8-10%. It’s light and fizzy, with a refreshing lemon flavor that pairs beautifully with Prosecco’s subtle sweetness, making it a lovely choice for brunch.
15. Lemon Mojito
The Lemon Mojito combines rum, lemon juice, soda, and mint, with an ABV around 10%. The tart lemon juice replaces lime, adding a twist to the classic Mojito, and the mint brings balance to the refreshing, slightly tart drink.
16. Lemon Gin Fizz
This cocktail mixes gin, Limoncello, lemon juice, and soda water for a fizzy, light drink around 10% ABV. The lemon and Limoncello bring a double citrus hit, while the gin’s botanicals add depth, making it refreshing yet complex.
17. Italian Lemon Drop
The Italian Lemon Drop features vodka, Limoncello, and lemon juice for a tart, slightly sweet cocktail around 15-20% ABV. Its bold lemon flavor and smooth finish make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy strong yet refreshing drinks.
18. Lemon Basil Martini
Using Limoncello, vodka, and fresh basil, this martini has an ABV of around 18-20%. The basil’s aromatic flavor balances the Limoncello’s sweetness, creating a unique cocktail with a refreshing lemon-basil profile.
19. Lemon Thyme Collins
A twist on the Tom Collins, this drink uses lemon thyme, gin, and lemon juice, with an ABV around 10-12%. It’s herby, citrusy, and refreshing, perfect for those who enjoy botanically-influenced drinks with a twist of lemon.
20. Lemon Vermouth Tonic
This low-ABV cocktail mixes lemon-infused vermouth with tonic water, offering around 6-8% ABV. Light, refreshing, and slightly bitter, it’s a popular Italian aperitif for those who prefer a mild drink with hints of lemon.
21. Sicilian Margarita
This Italian twist on the Margarita uses Limoncello, tequila, and lemon juice, resulting in a strong drink around 20% ABV. The lemony Limoncello softens the tequila’s bite, making this a refreshing yet potent cocktail with a citrusy flair.
22. Lemon White Wine Spritz
This spritz combines white wine, soda, and a splash of Limoncello for a light, citrusy drink around 8-10% ABV. It’s refreshing, with a lemony twist that balances the white wine’s flavor, perfect for afternoon sipping.
23. Lemon Whiskey Sour
This Italian-inspired Whiskey Sour combines lemon juice, Limoncello, and whiskey, with an ABV around 15%. The lemony Limoncello complements the whiskey’s warmth, making this a sour yet slightly sweet cocktail with a unique Italian twist.
24. Citrus Negroni
A lighter Negroni variant with lemon gin, Campari, and vermouth, this drink has an ABV around 15%. The lemony gin adds a fresh twist to the bitter-sweet profile of the classic Negroni, ideal for those looking for a citrusy version of a beloved Italian staple.
25. Italian Lemon Sour
This cocktail combines Limoncello, gin, and lemon juice for a sour, refreshing drink with an ABV around 15-18%. The lemon and Limoncello provide a double citrus hit, while the gin adds complexity, perfect for sour cocktail fans.
26. Lemon Gin Mule
This mule uses gin, lemon juice, and ginger beer for a zesty drink around 8-10% ABV. The lemon juice adds a tart edge to the mule’s ginger spice, creating a refreshing cocktail with a twist.
27. Lemon Martini Fizz
This drink mixes vodka, lemon juice, and soda water, resulting in a bubbly cocktail around 10-12% ABV. The light fizz complements the bold lemon flavor, making it a refreshing choice for martini fans.
28. Lemon Tequila Fizz
Combining tequila, lemon juice, and soda water, this cocktail has an ABV around 10-12%. The tart lemon juice softens the tequila’s intensity, resulting in a fizzy, light drink that’s perfect for summer.
29. Italian Lemon Punch
This punch combines Limoncello, Prosecco, and lemon juice, with an ABV around 8%. It’s bubbly, light, and citrusy, ideal for gatherings or as a celebratory drink with an Italian touch.
The Legal Age to Drink Alcohol in Italy
In Italy, the legal drinking age is 18. This means that anyone under the age of 18 is legally restricted from purchasing or consuming alcohol in public places.
Italy, known for its strong wine culture, values moderation and encourages responsible drinking from a young age.
However, while Italy’s legal framework sets 18 as the minimum age, cultural attitudes toward drinking may sometimes seem more relaxed than in other countries.
In restaurants, bars, and even supermarkets, it’s common to see alcohol sold openly, but strict laws are in place to prevent minors from accessing it. Establishments that sell alcohol to anyone under 18 can face heavy fines or even risk losing their license.
Additionally, it’s not just about who sells the alcohol; there are also penalties for adults who provide alcohol to minors in Italy, so social gatherings that include minors have specific responsibilities too.
Italy’s approach to alcohol is shaped by a tradition that favors enjoying small amounts of wine during meals rather than binge drinking.
As a result, Italians often develop a healthier relationship with alcohol, focusing more on the social experience than the quantity consumed.
For parents traveling to Italy with teenagers, it’s good to remember these laws apply to everyone, including tourists.
If you’re at a family dinner and have a young adult who’s under 18, they won’t be served alcohol in a restaurant.
Can you drink alcohol in public in Italy?
Yes, you can usually drink alcohol in public in Italy, but local rules can be different. In popular cities like Rome, Venice, and Milan, restrictions often apply, particularly in crowded areas and at night.
For instance, some cities prohibit alcohol consumption outdoors after 10 pm or midnight to prevent disturbances. Fines for violating these rules can range from €100 to €500.
Always check local guidelines to avoid fines, as Italy takes public decorum seriously, especially in tourist-heavy areas.
Can you drink alcohol on Italian trains?
Drinking alcohol on Italian trains is generally allowed, especially on long-distance and high-speed trains. However, local or regional trains may have stricter rules, and behavior is key.
If drinking disturbs other passengers, train staff may intervene and could restrict further alcohol consumption.
Some companies may also ban alcohol during late-night hours to maintain safety.
While no specific fines are set, causing public disturbance on trains can result in penalties or removal from the train at the next stop.
Conclusion
In Italy, every drink tells a story of tradition, passion, and the art of living well. From the refreshing Aperol Spritz to the complex Negroni, these iconic beverages aren’t just drinks—they’re a gateway to Italy’s vibrant culture and spirit.
Ready to bring a taste of Italy to your own gatherings? Discover these drinks, savor the flavors, and create unforgettable memories with friends and family.
Let Italy’s rich heritage of cocktails and wines inspire your next toast!