Limoncello Spritzer Copycat
Before traveling through Italy, I had never tasted Limoncello! I am not a fan of sweet drinks or liquors so it had never really occurred to me to purchase it on my own. But when traveling, I feel strongly about trying new things - foods, drinks, cultural experiences - and so limoncello was definitely on my list for this trip.
Limoncello is an Italian lemon liqueur - and while I was offered it throughout northern Italy, I believe it’s mainly produced in more of the southern regions. This makes sense to me - because during our trips through Sorrento and Capri, the lemons were abundant! Citrus trees lined the paths where we walked and the blooms filled the air with such a memorable scent. The shops and vendors offered lemon-scented everything, too - from soaps and perfumes to food and drink. I love all things lemon, so these were some of my favorite days during our trip! Capri, Italy is probably the most beautiful place I have ever been.
After touring the island we visited an outdoor eating venue that boasted a Limoncello Spritzer that was the best you could find. It supposedly had some “secret” ingredients in it to make it unique! I never found out what was in it, but it was so incredibly refreshing - not too sweet and the perfect accompaniment to our seats by the beautiful, green waters. It’s taken me quite a while to get around to recreating this amazing drink, but here is a replication that I (and my travel mates) came up with.
Limoncello Spritzer Copycat
Ingredients:
Limoncello - you can purchase this or make some of your own (it takes a few weeks to cure.)
Prosecco or Sparkling White Wine
Vodka (optional)
Citrus-flavored Seltzer
Citrus-flavored Sorbet or Sherbert
Limes, Oranges and fruit for garnish
This recipe is for reference, you can use amounts that work best for you. This makes 1 serving, but you could also make this in a pitcher to serve to groups. I think it looks pretty to layer the ingredients in each glass.
Fill a glass with ice and add 1 oz. of limoncello.
Add 4 oz. of prosecco
Top off with flavored citrus sparkling soda or club soda
Garnish with fresh fruits and an optional small scoop of sorbet or sherbert (optional)