Limoncello Spritz

When the sun's out, there's nothing better than a spritz cocktail. Aperol is a classic choice, but this limoncello number transports me to Italy after just one sip. I kept this recipe really simple with just five ingredients (plus ice), and it takes less than five minutes to put together. Garnish with a slice of fresh lemon and some fresh basil for herby, Italian vibes, and you've got yourself the perfect summer cocktail.

How To Make A Limoncello Spritz

INGREDIENTS

• Prosecco: Use your favorite brand of Prosecco here, or check out this list of the best Prosecco brands to find your new go-to spritz addition.
• Limoncello: You can totally use store-bought, but if you feel like getting fancy, make homemade limoncello for this cocktail. If you make it homemade, be sure to plan ahead: Limoncello needs to sit for at least 1 day. Once you make it, it can go way beyond this cocktail—use it as an aperitif or in this limoncello tiramisu.
• Soda Water: Topping your spritz off with soda water blends the cocktail together, and eases up on the tart flavors of the limoncello and the sweet, bubbly Prosecco.
• Basil & Lemon: Fresh basil and lemon slices not only add fresh flavor to this spritz, but also provide a stunning look to your glass.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Just like any cocktail, the key to creating a perfect limoncello spritz is all about the ratio. The golden ratio for a limoncello spritz takes a note from our Aperol spritz of 3-2-1: 3 parts Prosecco, 2 parts limoncello, and 1 part soda water. After filling your glass with ice, add your store-bought (or homemade) limoncello.

After adding your limoncello, add 2 parts Prosecco. If you prefer, you can add a bit more Prosecco here and cut down on the limoncello.

Top everything off with some soda water for that bubbly, fizzy top.

Give everything a stir to combine before adding the basil and lemon slices (if you so desire), and get ready for summertime sippin'.

Full list of ingredients and directions can be found in the recipe below.

Recipe Tips

• What is limoncello? Limoncello is commonly known as an aperitif—a drink enjoyed before eating—that hails from the region Campania in Italy. Limoncello is traditionally made with Amalfi lemons, which are unfortunately nothing like you’d find in your local grocery store, but can be made with classic lemons. The liquor is sweet and strong with a punching flavor, making it perfect for adding to cocktails like this one.