Cin Cin – the 8 best Italian cocktails
What better way to beat the summer heat than with a refreshing Italian cocktail? Italy is known for its lively and delicious drinks that are perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. From the classic Aperol Spritz to the lesser-known Negroni Sbagliato, there are so many options to choose from. In this blog, we explore five of the most refreshing Italian cocktails that will take you straight to the streets of Venice or the shores of Sicily. Whether you prefer something sweet and fruity or something bold and bitter, there is a cocktail for every taste.
Italians value the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients when making their cocktails. They also strongly believe in the art of mixing and creating a perfect balance of flavors. The result is a drink that is not only refreshing, but also offers a unique taste experience. Whether you are looking for a cocktail to enjoy during a relaxing afternoon in the sun or to share with friends during your vacation, Italian cocktails are sure to impress.
1. Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini is the perfect fusion of two beloved ingredients: coffee and vodka. Conceived in London in the 1980s, this cocktail brings together the robust flavor of freshly brewed espresso with the power of vodka and a hint of coffee liqueur. The result is an invigorating blend of flavors that not only stimulates your senses but also adds a touch of Italian elegance to the classic martini recipe.
2. Bellini
A creation from the vibrant city of Venice, the Bellini is a cocktail that celebrates the art of peaches. Made with fresh peach puree and sparkling Prosecco, the Bellini is a symphony of sweet and effervescent flavors. Conceived in the 1930s at Venice’s famous Harry’s Bar, this elegant cocktail exudes sophisticated charm and is a popular choice for lovers of fruity and delicate drinks.
3. Mimosa
For a light and refreshing choice, go for the Mimosa. This colorful cocktail, made with fresh orange juice and sparkling wine, is perfect for a relaxing aperitivo brunch. Enjoy the sunshine in a glass while embracing the Italian lifestyle.
4. Limoncello Spritz
Limoncello, a delicious lemon liqueur from the Campania region, is the basis of this refreshing cocktail: the Limoncello Spritz. Mixed with sparkling water and prosecco, the Limoncello Spritz is an explosion of citrus freshness. Ideal for those who love the combination of sweet and sour.
5. Aperol Spritz
A trendy favorite among Italians, the Aperol Spritz offers a perfect balance of bitter and sweet. Made with Aperol, Prosecco and a splash of soda water, this orange-colored cocktail is a refreshing thirst quencher that will make your taste buds dance.
6. Sgroppino
For an elegant ending to your aperitivo, try the Sgroppino. This Venetian creation combines prosecco, vodka and lemon sorbet into a refreshing frothy whole. It’s like a sorbet dessert in cocktail form, a real treat for foodies.
7. Rossini
For lovers of sweet indulgence, the Rossini is the right choice. Add a touch of glamour to your aperitivo with this cocktail made from Prosecco and fresh strawberry puree. It’s like a sophisticated fruity treat in a flute.
8. Negroni
Delve into the world of complex flavors with the Negroni. A blend of gin, red vermouth and Campari, this cocktail offers a perfect balance of sweet and bitter. Served over ice with a slice of orange, the Negroni is a classic that will challenge and delight your taste buds.
The “Negroni Sbagliato” is an interesting variation on the classic Negroni cocktail. In Italian, “sbagliato” actually means “wrong” or “mistake,” and the name suggests that something unexpected happened during the creation of this cocktail.
The Negroni Sbagliato reportedly originated accidentally in the 1970s at Bar Basso in Milan. The story goes that a bartender accidentally poured sparkling wine instead of gin in a Negroni. The result was a delicious mistake that became popular and earned its own place in the world of cocktails.
What do you need?
– 30 ml Campari
– 30 ml red vermouth
– 60 ml sparkling wine (e.g. prosecco)
– Ice
– Orange zest (as garnish)
How do you make it?
1. Fill a tumbler glass with ice cubes.
2. Add the Campari and red vermouth to the glass.
3. Gently stir the ingredients together.
4. Top the cocktail with sparkling wine (prosecco).
5. Stir gently to mix all ingredients.
6. Garnish with an orange peel by squeezing a piece of orange peel over the glass to release the oils and rubbing it over the cocktail for extra flavor.
The Negroni Sbagliato retains the bitterness of the classic Negroni, but the use of sparkling wine instead of gin gives it a lighter and refreshing twist. It is a great choice for lovers of fizzy cocktails and a surprising discovery for those who enjoy the bittersweet notes of the traditional Negroni. Cheers to the joy of unexpected creations!
Enjoying Italian cocktails.
As you stroll the streets of Italy and the evening sun fills the sky, take time to enjoy an aperitivo moment with one of these delicious Italian cocktails. Let your senses be enchanted by the flavors, atmosphere and undeniable charm of Italian cocktail culture. But if you’re not a cocktail lover, check out some tasty Italian wines here. Cheers to an unforgettable journey full of flavorful discoveries! Salute!
