Limoncello Spritz

This limoncello spritz uses an Italian liqueur in a sparkling cocktail that's wonderful as a refresher on a hot day!

Some drinks just really feel like the essence of summer. Lemonade, for instance. Maybe with some added lavender or strawberry.

And on the cocktail side of things, we have the spritz. A light refresher that's full of fizz and flavor. For something that feels like a sparkling lemonade, I recommend that you give limoncello a try!

This is a variation of the more popular Aperol Spritz. The liqueur has a potent lemon flavor and is often imbibed on its own, but it makes a delightful cocktail ingredient.

We tried several spritz variations during our Tour du Mont Blanc trek, including at Casa Nonna and Le Comptoir des Alpes in Chamonix, France. We found them to be really refreshing in the summer heat.

The Aperol Spritz is a little on the bitter side, though, and when I tried the sweeter limoncello version I was sold.

What's the Formula?

The ratio for this cocktail is: 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts limoncello, and 1 part sparkling water.

It uses the same proportions as the classic Aperol spritz, but with limoncello as a substitute.

I've seen other variations that swap in lemonade instead of sparkling water. In my opinion, that makes a too-sweet cocktail, but it might work well if you want a sweeter drink, or if your lemonade is tarter than usual.

What Kind of Prosecco Should I Use?

You don't have to spring for a high-end or extra-expensive Prosecco.

My favorite is an extra dry (or brut) Prosecco, because it makes this sweet drink a little less dessert-like.

How to Make A Limoncello Spritz

Start with ice in a wine glass. Measure out the liqueur.

Then pour in the Prosecco, and complete the mixture by adding sparkling water.

A few lemon slices make for a nice garnish. Then, enjoy your spritz! It's easily scaled up for a crowd too.