Liquid Sunshine: Limoncello Cocktails
For a taste of liquid sunshine, add limoncello to the mix. In southern Italy, the citrusy liqueur —made from lemon peels macerated in a neutral spirit and sweetened with sugar—is enjoyed as either an aperitif, a digestif, or in a spritz.
“showcasing it in bright, refreshing cocktails and crafting their own versions behind the bar.”
But, as we wrote in our July/August 2026 issue , where bottled limoncello fell out of favor during the early days of craft cocktails, today’s bartenders are “showcasing it in bright, refreshing cocktails and crafting their own versions behind the bar.” Here are some of our favorite ways to incorporate Amalfi vibes in day-friendly limoncello cocktails. Amalfi Frappe Flavors of the Italian coast come to life in this shaved ice drink.
Boozy Shakerato Take your pick-me-up to the next level with a shot of limoncello. Italian 47 Spritz This Italian-inspired take on the French 75 features the bright citrus of limoncello and fresh, vegetal notes of basil.
Limoncello Sour Italy meets Cali in this vibrant sour. Roots & Rituals The elements of Italian digestivo drinks come together in one satisfying sipper. Sbagliato Sicilia For a warm-weather sparkler, Dante NYC created this Sbagliato method featuring lemons, the fruit Sicily is known for.
Summer Beer With Limoncello Limoncello and lemon juice make for an extra-citrusy take on the shandy.