There are drinks that simply taste like summer.

A Limoncello Spritz is one of them!

One sip instantly transports you to the Amalfi Coast, where lemon groves tumble down dramatic cliffs, colourful umbrellas line sun-drenched beaches, and long lunches effortlessly drift into golden evenings. It captures everything we love about la dolce vita- simple pleasures, beautiful surroundings, and never rushing the moment.

Despite its elegant appearance, this iconic Italian cocktail couldn't be easier to make. With just a handful of ingredients and less than five minutes of preparation, it's the perfect aperitivo to serve before dinner, at a garden party, or whenever you'd like to bring a little Mediterranean sunshine into your home.

Whether you're dreaming of Positano, Capri or your next Italian escape, this is the cocktail that sets the mood.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under five minutes
• Light, refreshing and beautifully citrusy
• Perfect for warm summer evenings
• Ideal as an aperitivo before dinner
• Elegant enough for entertaining but effortless to make

Ingredients

• 60 ml Limoncello, well chilled
• 90 ml Prosecco, chilled
• 30 ml sparkling water
• Plenty of ice
• 1 slice of lemon
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Equipment

• Large wine glass
• Jigger or measuring cup
• Bar spoon

Method

1. Fill your glass generously with ice

A large wine glass or a gin tonic glass works beautifully and keeps the drink refreshingly cold without becoming diluted too quickly.

2. Pour in the Limoncello

Add the chilled Limoncello first (it's more refreshing straight out of the freezer), allowing its bright citrus aromas to form the base of the cocktail.

3. Add the Prosecco

Slowly pour in the chilled Prosecco to preserve as many bubbles as possible.

4. Finish with sparkling water

Top with sparkling water for a lighter, perfectly balanced finish.

5. Garnish

Add a fresh slice of lemon and, if you like, a sprig of mint for an extra burst of freshness.

Serve immediately while beautifully chilled.

How to Serve a Limoncello Spritz

The beauty of a Limoncello Spritz lies in its simplicity.

Serve it before dinner with a few elegant nibbles rather than a full meal. It's designed to awaken the appetite- the very essence of the Italian aperitivo tradition.

It pairs beautifully with:

• Burrata with peaches and honey
• Marinated olives
• Prosciutto di Parma
• Fresh focaccia
• Parmigiano Reggiano
• Salted Marcona almonds
• Lemon-marinated green olives

Wine & Cocktail Notes

Limoncello is traditionally made using the fragrant zest of Italian lemons, particularly those grown along the Amalfi Coast and around Sorrento, where the warm Mediterranean climate produces exceptionally aromatic fruit.

For the freshest flavour, always serve both the Limoncello and Prosecco well chilled.

Avoid adding extra sugar or fruit juice—the magic of this cocktail is its clean, bright simplicity.

The Riviera Mood

Imagine a shaded terrace overlooking the sea.

White linen dancing in the breeze.

Fresh lemons resting in a ceramic bowl.

Jazz playing softly in the background.

The sun slowly sinking towards the horizon while conversations continue long after the glasses are empty.

A Limoncello Spritz isn't simply a cocktail.

It's an invitation to slow down.

Set the Scene

Bring a little Amalfi magic to your table.

• White linen napkins
• Handmade ceramic glasses or Italian wine glasses
• A bowl overflowing with fresh lemons
• Olive branches in a simple vase
• Candlelight as the sun begins to set
• Soft Italian classics or French jazz playing quietly
• Serve outdoors whenever possible

Did You Know?

Limoncello is believed to have originated somewhere between the Amalfi Coast, Capri and Sorrento. While several towns proudly claim to be its birthplace, everyone agrees on one thing: it should always be served beautifully cold.

Today, it's one of Italy's most recognisable liqueurs and an enduring symbol of Mediterranean hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Limoncello Spritz?

A Limoncello Spritz is an Italian cocktail made with Limoncello, Prosecco, sparkling water and ice. It's lighter than drinking Limoncello neat and perfect as an aperitivo.

Can I make it less sweet?

Absolutely. Add a little more sparkling water or use a drier Prosecco to create a crisper finish.

What's the best Prosecco to use?

Choose a dry or extra dry Prosecco rather than one that's particularly sweet. The bright citrus flavour of the Limoncello should remain the star.

Can I prepare it in advance?

It's best made fresh. However, you can chill all the ingredients beforehand so it's ready to assemble in moments.

Explore more Riviera Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love:

• Burrata with Peaches, Prosciutto & Honey
• The Perfect Aperol Spritz
• Classic Burrata Caprese
• Easy Lemon Ricotta Pasta
• The Ultimate Riviera Aperitivo Board

Or continue dreaming of your next escape with our guides to the Amalfi Coast and the French Riviera.

The Club Riviera Ritual

Slow down.

Pour the drink.

Put your phone away.

Open the windows.

Let the evening unfold at its own pace.

Because la dolce vita isn't reserved for holidays on the Riviera. It's found in simple rituals, beautiful food, and taking the time to savour ordinary moments as though you're overlooking the Mediterranean.