Aperol Spritz
The Aperol Spritz is a classic Italian aperitivo and one of the country’s most beloved cocktails. Known for its vibrant orange hue and refreshing, slightly bitter flavor, the Aperol Spritz has gained international popularity in recent years. Traditionally enjoyed before dinner, this cocktail is light, easy to drink, and perfectly suited for warm Italian evenings.
Made with Aperol, Prosecco, and a splash of soda, the Aperol Spritz strikes a balance between sweet, bitter, and fizzy flavors. Served in a large glass with ice and garnished with a slice of orange, it’s both eye-catching and delicious. Aperol, the star ingredient, is an Italian aperitif with hints of orange, rhubarb, and herbs, lending the drink its distinctive flavor profile.
Where to Try It: Just about any Italian bar or restaurant, especially in Venice, where the Spritz originated. Order it around 5-7 p.m. to enjoy the authentic Italian aperitivo experience.
Negroni
For those who enjoy a bolder, more complex cocktail, the Negroni is a must-try. This iconic drink is made from equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, creating a cocktail that is both bitter and slightly sweet. The Negroni was first created in Florence in 1919, when Count Camillo Negroni asked a bartender to make his Americano cocktail stronger by replacing soda water with gin.
The Negroni’s bright red color is striking, and its flavor is intense and sophisticated. It’s best enjoyed slowly, making it a popular choice for aperitivo. In Italy, the Negroni is often served with an orange slice, adding a hint of citrus aroma to the drink.
Where to Try It: Florence is the birthplace of the Negroni, but it’s widely available in bars across Italy. Try it with some Italian olives or other small bites to balance its strong flavor.
Limoncello
Limoncello is a sweet, zesty liqueur that captures the essence of Italy’s beautiful Amalfi Coast. Made from the zest of Sorrento lemons, sugar, water, and alcohol, Limoncello is a refreshing digestif often served ice-cold in small glasses after meals. Its bright yellow color and intensely lemony flavor make it an unforgettable taste experience.
The liqueur is simple but powerful, balancing sweetness and the natural sharpness of lemon. Many Italian families have their own Limoncello recipes, and you’ll find artisanal versions at markets along the Amalfi Coast and in Campania. Limoncello is best enjoyed in small sips, allowing its citrus flavors to cleanse the palate after a hearty Italian meal.
Where to Try It: While it’s available throughout Italy, Limoncello is best enjoyed along the Amalfi Coast in towns like Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, where lemons grow abundantly.
Espresso
In Italy, coffee is not just a drink; it’s a daily ritual. Italians are known for their love of espresso, a small, strong shot of coffee that packs a flavorful punch. Espresso is served in tiny cups, and Italians usually drink it standing up at a bar, especially in the morning. Unlike in other countries, ordering a coffee in Italy typically means an espresso by default.
The Italian approach to coffee is simple yet precise, with a strong emphasis on quality and consistency. A traditional Italian espresso has a rich, bold flavor with a hint of bitterness and a creamy layer of “crema” on top. Italians don’t linger over their coffee—they take a few sips and go, as espresso is designed to be a quick pick-me-up.
Where to Try It: Virtually everywhere in Italy, from bustling city bars to tiny cafes in small towns. Each region has slightly different coffee traditions, but the quality of espresso is consistently high throughout the country.
Chianti Classico
Italy is one of the world’s leading wine producers, and the country offers an array of wines to suit any taste. Among the many famous Italian wines, Chianti Classico stands out as a must-try. Originating from Tuscany’s Chianti region, this red wine is primarily made from Sangiovese grapes, giving it a robust, fruity flavor with hints of cherry, plum, and spices.
Chianti Classico is typically dry, with high acidity and moderate tannins, making it an excellent pairing for Italian dishes like pasta with tomato sauce, grilled meats, and aged cheeses. Chianti Classico wines are easily recognizable by their black rooster seal, which signifies their authenticity and quality.
Where to Try It: Chianti Classico is best experienced in Tuscany, especially in the Chianti wine region, where you can tour vineyards and enjoy tastings in a scenic, countryside setting.
