taly is world-renowned for its cuisine, known for its freshness and the high quality of its ingredients. From traditional dishes like lasagna and pizza to irresistible desserts such as tiramisù and cannoli, it’s almost impossible not to savour something. But what about the drinks?
You might have already tried one without knowing it was Italian. Indeed, Italian culture is also something you can sip.
The aperitivo moment – a near-sacred tradition in many Italian cities – is a perfect example of how drinking is more than just consuming: it’s something shared, discussed, and truly lived. That’s why I’d like to introduce you to some typical Italian drinks, ranging from ideal cocktails for a chat with friends to refreshing soft drinks perfect for a hot afternoon.
Italian Cocktails you must try
Italy has a long-standing tradition of cocktail-making, and it’s worth raising a glass to. These drinks are remarkable not only for their flavour but also for the stories they tell. Here are a few classics you should definitely add to your “must-try” list:
Spritz
The spritz is Italy’s most iconic cocktail, originating from the northeast, particularly the Veneto region. It’s a refreshing, slightly bitter drink, ideal as an aperitif. The traditional recipe consists of three ingredients: prosecco, Aperol or Campari, and sparkling water.
It’s usually served with ice and an orange slice. The most famous version is the Aperol Spritz, known for its bright orange colour and mild flavour. It has become a symbol of Italian lifestyle – perfect for enjoying at sunset on a terrace with small snacks.
Negroni
A strong, elegant cocktail with a rich history. The Negroni was born in Florence when Count Camillo Negroni, tired of his usual “Americano” cocktail after a trip, asked to add a splash of gin.
The result? A cocktail combining gin, sweet red vermouth, and Campari. It’s not for every palate, but it’s a favourite among those who enjoy intense, bitter flavours. It pairs excellently with cheeses.
Limoncello
Limoncello captures the soul of southern Italy in a single sip. Originating from the island of Capri, this lemon liqueur is best served ice-cold, often as a digestif after a meal. It’s also used in many desserts.
Its sweet and citrusy taste, along with its vibrant yellow colour, makes it one of the standout Italian liqueurs. It’s a symbol of hospitality, long after-dinner chats, and the endless Italian summer.
Bellini
Delicate and fruity, the Bellini is perfect for prosecco lovers. It combines prosecco with white peach purée to create a refined and elegant cocktail.
Its name comes from the Venetian painter Giovanni Bellini. The bartender Giuseppe Cipriani, of Venice’s Harry’s Bar, was inspired by the colour of the drink, which reminded him of a saint’s toga in one of Bellini’s paintings – hence the name.
Americano
Despite the name, the Americano is 100% Italian. Milder than the Negroni, it consists of vermouth, Campari, and soda water. It was very popular before gin took over Italian bars.
Its original name was Milano-Torino, because its two main ingredients come from Milan and Turin. But over time – and thanks to American tourists who frequently ordered it – it became known as the Americano.
Italian Soft Drinks with Personality
Italy isn’t just about food, wine, and cocktails – even its soft drinks have character. Unlike the overly sugary drinks that dominate global markets, Italian soft drinks tend to be more complex, bitter, or citrusy and are closely tied to specific times of the day, like the aperitivo or midday break. Tasting them is like opening a window into the country’s everyday life – a refreshing way to travel with your palate.
Chinotto
A soft drink with a unique flavour, somewhere between bitter and spiced. Although very popular, it’s quite divisive – people either love it or hate it.
It’s made from the fruit of the same name, a citrus similar in appearance to an orange, but smaller and flatter.
Crodino
The king of non-alcoholic aperitifs. With its intense, herbal taste and sweet undertone, Crodino is ideal for those wanting a grown-up aperitif without any alcohol.
Its fizz and distinctive flavour evoke the spirit of a sunny Italian day. Perfect for those seeking a refreshing and surprising taste.
Gingerino
Another non-alcoholic Italian drink, Gingerino is known for its bitter and refreshing taste. Made with herbal extracts, spices, and ginger, it has a deep red colour and a taste reminiscent of bitter aperitifs like Campari – but alcohol-free.
Especially popular in northern Italy (particularly the Veneto region), Gingerino is typically served cold, with ice and an orange slice. It’s a go-to aperitif for those avoiding alcohol but craving a bold, bitter flavour.
Learn Italian through culture… and its drinks!
One of the most enjoyable ways to learn a language is by experiencing the culture – including its food and drinks. Did you know Italians don’t just say “let’s grab a drink”? We say fare aperitivo, which means “to have an aperitif”: for Italians, it’s not just about consuming something – it’s an activity, combining drinking a glass of wine or spritz with something to eat, just before lunch or dinner.
Here are some useful phrases you can learn that relate to cocktails and drinks:
Facciamo aperitivo? – Shall we have an aperitif?
Possiamo sederci fuori? – Can we sit outside?
È libero questo tavolo? – Is this table free?
Cosa mi consiglia? – What do you recommend?
Vorrei un crodino, per favore. – I’d like a crodino, please.
Posso avere uno spritz all’aperol? – Can I have an Aperol Spritz?
Learning phrases in real-life context helps the vocabulary stick with you much longer!
Italian drinks are yet another way to explore its culture, customs, and – of course – its language. Whether you prefer a sophisticated cocktail or a non-alcoholic soft drink, there’s an Italian beverage waiting for you.
Would you like to learn Italian while discovering more about its culture, cuisine, and traditions? Write to me and let’s start this flavourful language journey together!
