Limoncello Spritz Cocktail Drink

Limoncello Spritz

A shot of Gavin Wrigley looking to the camera in a dimly lit room
Written by Gavin Wrigley
Andrea
Tested by
Andrea Ottaiano

Create a refreshing Limoncello Spritz with a few simple ingredients. Our recipe delivers a zesty, citrus-flavored drink, perfect for any occasion.

Limoncello Spritz Recipe

Try our Limoncello Spritz recipe! Mix up Limoncello, Prosecco, and soda for a cool summer sip.

Prep time:

1 minute

Mixing time:

1 minute

Servings:

1

Calories:

262 kl

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Limoncello
  • 4 oz Prosecco
  • 1 oz soda water
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon slice or twist & mint sprig, for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Wine Glass or Large Goblet
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Stirrer or Bar Spoon

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Fill your wine glass or large goblet with ice cubes
  • Add Limoncello: Pour 2 oz Limoncello over the ice.
  • Add Prosecco: Pour approximately 4 oz Prosecco into the glass.
  • Add Soda: Introduce 1 oz soda water to the mix.
  • Stir Gently: With a bar spoon, combine the ingredients gently.
  • Garnish: Add a lemon slice or twist and a mint sprig to the glass for garnish.

Notes

Substitutes:

I've been in situations where I didn't have every ingredient on hand, and here's what I've learned:
  • Limoncello: No Limoncello? No problem. I've used a lemon-flavored syrup mixed with vodka to mimic the lemony kick.
  • Prosecco: If Prosecco is out of reach, sparkling white wine or Champagne does the trick. I've even tried it with a dry sparkling rosé, and the result was pleasantly surprising.
  • Soda Water: In a bind, I've replaced soda water with tonic water or even lemon-lime soda for an extra sweet touch.

Making a Pitcher of Limoncello Spritz:

  • Scale: Want to serve 8? Just multiply the ingredients by 8: 16 oz of limoncello, 32 oz of Prosecco, and 8 oz of soda water.
  • Mix: Blend the limoncello, Prosecco, and soda water in a sizable pitcher. Stir thoroughly.
  • Serve: Distribute the blend into ice-filled glasses, garnish with a lemon slice or twist, and serve without delay.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Limoncello Substitute: Go for a robust lemon syrup. The more natural and tangy, the better.
  • Prosecco Substitute: A non-alcoholic sparkling wine or a fizzy lemonade can step in for Prosecco.
  • Follow the original steps using these non-alcoholic alternatives, and indulge in a non-alcoholic version.

Making it Vegan:

Good news! The standard cocktail is already vegan-friendly. Ensure the Prosecco or any sparkling wine you choose doesn't use animal-derived fining agents, like gelatin or egg whites. Look for vegan-certified labels to be extra sure.

Nutrition Facts

Calories
262
% Daily Value*
Sodium
 
14
mg
1
%
Carbohydrates
 
23
g
8
%
Sugar
 
23
g
26
%
Potassium
 
100
mg
3
%
Protein
 
0.1
g
0
%
Calcium
 
12
mg
1
%
Iron
 
0.5
mg
3
%

 

Limoncello Spritz Cocktail Drink

Limoncello Spritz Recipe

Jump to Video
Try our Limoncello Spritz recipe! Mix up Limoncello, Prosecco, and soda for a cool summer sip.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 262

Ingredients
 

  • 2 oz Limoncello
  • 4 oz Prosecco
  • 1 oz soda water
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon slice or twist & mint sprig - for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Wine Glass or Large Goblet
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Stirrer or Bar Spoon

Instructions

  • Prep Glass: Fill your wine glass or large goblet with ice cubes
  • Add Limoncello: Pour 2 oz Limoncello over the ice.
  • Add Prosecco: Pour approximately 4 oz Prosecco into the glass.
  • Add Soda: Introduce 1 oz soda water to the mix.
  • Stir Gently: With a bar spoon, combine the ingredients gently.
  • Garnish: Add a lemon slice or twist and a mint sprig to the glass for garnish.

Notes

Substitutes:

I've been in situations where I didn't have every ingredient on hand, and here's what I've learned:
  • Limoncello: No Limoncello? No problem. I've used a lemon-flavored syrup mixed with vodka to mimic the lemony kick.
  • Prosecco: If Prosecco is out of reach, sparkling white wine or Champagne does the trick. I've even tried it with a dry sparkling rosé, and the result was pleasantly surprising.
  • Soda Water: In a bind, I've replaced soda water with tonic water or even lemon-lime soda for an extra sweet touch.

Making a Pitcher of Limoncello Spritz:

  • Scale: Want to serve 8? Just multiply the ingredients by 8: 16 oz of limoncello, 32 oz of Prosecco, and 8 oz of soda water.
  • Mix: Blend the limoncello, Prosecco, and soda water in a sizable pitcher. Stir thoroughly.
  • Serve: Distribute the blend into ice-filled glasses, garnish with a lemon slice or twist, and serve without delay.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Limoncello Substitute: Go for a robust lemon syrup. The more natural and tangy, the better.
  • Prosecco Substitute: A non-alcoholic sparkling wine or a fizzy lemonade can step in for Prosecco.
  • Follow the original steps using these non-alcoholic alternatives, and indulge in a non-alcoholic version.

Making it Vegan:

Good news! The standard cocktail is already vegan-friendly. Ensure the Prosecco or any sparkling wine you choose doesn't use animal-derived fining agents, like gelatin or egg whites. Look for vegan-certified labels to be extra sure.

What is an Limoncello Spritz?

Limoncello Spritz is a cocktail that combines Limoncello, Prosecco, and soda. Originating from Italy’s sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, this drink captures the region’s zest for life. The spritz element of the name signifies the sparkling nature of the drink, brought to life by the Prosecco and soda. You might think this cocktail requires expert skills, but even a novice can make this drink.

A side shot of a Limoncello Spritz cocktail in a tumbler glass on a black stone plate placed on a white marmol table surrounded by mint and a lemon wedge.

What is a Limoncello Spritz made of – The ingredients for a summer cocktail

Before you mix together your Limoncello Spritz, prepare these ingredients:

  • Limoncello: An Italian lemon liqueur, it provides the drink’s distinctive citrusy sweetness.
  • Prosecco: An Italian sparkling wine, it adds effervescence and lightness to the cocktail.
  • Soda Water: Carbonated water that further elevates the spritz aspect, enhancing its refreshing quality.
  • Lemon slice or twist (optional): Often used for garnish, it enhances the visual appeal and reinforces the lemon flavor.

Limoncello, prosecco, and soda watter laid out on a white bar table

How do you make a Limoncello Spritz?

To help create your Limoncello Spritz, use our guide:

1
<p>Start by filling a wine glass or large goblet with ice cubes to chill the drink and keep it refreshing.</p>

Start by filling a wine glass or large goblet with ice cubes to chill the drink and keep it refreshing.

2
<p>Pour 2 oz of Limoncello over the ice, introducing the cocktail’s primary citrus flavor.</p>

Pour 2 oz of Limoncello over the ice, introducing the cocktail’s primary citrus flavor.

3
<p>Add 4 oz of Prosecco into the glass, infusing the drink with its characteristic effervescence.</p>

Add 4 oz of Prosecco into the glass, infusing the drink with its characteristic effervescence.

4
<p>Follow up by adding 1 oz of soda water, further enhancing the spritz element and diluting the drink to the right consistency.</p>

Follow up by adding 1 oz of soda water, further enhancing the spritz element and diluting the drink to the right consistency.

5
<p>Gently stir the ingredients using a bar spoon, ensuring they blend harmoniously.</p>

Gently stir the ingredients using a bar spoon, ensuring they blend harmoniously.

6
<p>For a finishing touch, garnish the drink first with a lemon slice or twist.</p>

For a finishing touch, garnish the drink first with a lemon slice or twist.

7
<p>Additionally place a sprig of mint, adding a visual cue to the lemon essence of the cocktail.</p>

Additionally place a sprig of mint, adding a visual cue to the lemon essence of the cocktail.

8
<p>Enjoy your Limoncello Spritz!</p>

Enjoy your Limoncello Spritz!

Limoncello Spritz with or without Prosecco

Prosecco plays an important role in the Limoncello Spritz, contributing its signature bubbles and light, fruity notes. Ditching Prosecco might raise eyebrows, but it’s all about personal preference. Other sparkling wines can hold their ground as tasty substitutes as well. 

Limoncello Spritz with Vodka

Vodka’s neutral character can give the drink a stronger flavor without overshadowing the Limoncello. Brands like Tito’s and Grey Goose are favorites in the mixology world for their clean and smooth profiles. If you want to go local, Smirnoff works wonders without being too expensive. But if you’re asking for a personal tip, Belvedere is the way to go. It’s crisp and smooth and elevates the cocktail to a whole new level of refreshing.

A Limoncello Spritz cocktail, shot from above, in a tumbler glass on a black stone plate on a white marmol table with a lemon wedge and a min sprig on the side

Limoncello Spritz Variations

If the standard version not quite hit the spot, try some variations that we recommend:

  • Raspberry Limoncello Spritz: A tangy sweetness from raspberries meets the zesty, lemony essence of limoncello, creating a delightful fruitiness that complements the citrus sharpness. I relish the raspberry flavor’s invigorating burst, offering both satisfaction and sweetness.
  • Limoncello Aperol Spritz: Bold, bitter-sweet Aperol joins the citrusy sharpness of limoncello, adding a distinctive herbal undertone and rich color. This creates a complex and intriguing taste profile.
  • Limoncello Champagne: Luxurious champagne and bright limoncello combine elegantly, balancing the champagne’s sophistication with the limoncello’s vivacity. It’s a harmonious blend, perfect for special occasions.
  • Lemon Spritz Cocktail: A straightforward yet tantalizing mix, focusing on lemon’s pure, clean taste. Its natural tartness and slight sweetness shine through, offering a refreshing and effortlessly enjoyable experience. The simplicity is what I find most appealing.

A side shot of a Limoncello Spritz cocktail in a tumbler glass on a black stone plateplaced on a white marmol table with a mint sprig and a lemon wedge on the side

History and Origin of the Limoncello Spritz

The Limoncello Spritz does not have a well-documented origin story like some of the world’s most iconic cocktails. However, understanding its components can give insight into its background.

Limoncello, the primary ingredient, is deeply embedded in Southern Italy, specifically around the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, and the islands of Capri and Ischia. Locals have crafted this zesty lemon liqueur for over a century, using abundant, locally grown lemons. Family recipes passed down from generation to generation have made Limoncello an integral part of the region’s culinary and cultural identity. After a meal, Italians frequently enjoy it as a “digestivo” or digestive.

 

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FAQ

How many calories are in a Limoncello Spritz?
Typically, a Limoncello Spritz contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and their quantities.
How strong is a Limoncello Spritz in terms of alcohol content?
The strength varies based on the proportions, but generally, a Limoncello Spritz has an ABV (alcohol by volume) of about 10-15%.
What's the proof of a Limoncello Spritz?
A Limoncello Spritz would be around 20-30 proof, given the typical ABV.
What type of alcohol is used in a Limoncello Spritz?
Limoncello and Prosecco are the primary alcohols used in this drink.
In which type of glass should a Limoncello Spritz be served?
It's commonly served in a wine glass or large goblet.
What does a Limoncello Spritz taste like?
It offers a refreshing citrusy sweetness from the Limoncello, balanced with the effervescence of Prosecco and soda.
How is the Limoncello Spritz ratio determined?
A standard ratio often used is 2 parts Limoncello, 4 parts Prosecco, and 1 part soda water.
How is the drink typically served in terms of ice and presentation?
It's usually served over ice, ensuring the drink remains chilled and refreshing.
What foods pair well with a Limoncello Spritz?
Light appetizers, seafood dishes, and Mediterranean salads complement the drink's refreshing nature.

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