Step into Italy’s world of drinks, covering everything from the warmth of traditional spirits and the creativity of mixology, to the renowned diversity of Italian wines, the casual appeal of beers, and the everyday pleasure of hot and cold soft drinks.
Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply curious, there’s a drink from Italy to match every taste and occasion. Let’s lift the glass to the vibrant Italian drink culture, where every sip tells a story. >>>
1.) Italian Spirits
1.1.) Italian Liquor
1. Grappa
- Distilled grape pomace brandy
Grappa is a renowned Italian spirit distilled from the pomace left after wine-making. Characterized by its potent flavor and varying degrees of smoothness, this traditional beverage is often enjoyed as a digestif. Grappa showcases the Italian mastery of turning by-products into premium spirits, making it a staple in Italian culture and dining.
1.2.) Italian Liqueurs
1.2.1.) Botanical Italian Liqueurs (Herbs, Spices, Flowers)
2. Strega
- Saffron-infused herbal liqueur
Strega, an iconic herbal liqueur, is infused with saffron, lending it a distinctive yellow hue and a complex flavor profile. Crafted in Benevento, Italy, it blends over 70 herbs and spices, making it a versatile addition to cocktails and culinary delights, cherished for its unique taste and cultural heritage.
3. Galliano
- Vanilla and herb liqueur
Galliano, a sweet herbal liqueur, is known for its vibrant yellow color and vanilla-anise flavor with subtle citrus and woodsy herbal undertones. This Italian classic adds a unique touch to a variety of cocktails, showcasing Italy’s flair for complex liqueurs.
4. Centerbe
- Strong herbal mountain liqueur
Centerbe, translating to ‘hundred herbs,’ is a potent Italian liqueur that captures the essence of mountain herbs. This spirit, known for its intense herbal flavor, is traditionally produced in central and southern Italy, offering a taste of the wild, aromatic landscapes of the region.
5. Genziana
- Gentian root bitter liqueur
Genziana is a bitter liqueur made from the roots of the gentian plant, celebrated for its digestive properties. Its earthy, bitter taste reflects the Italian tradition of using local botanicals to create beverages that not only delight the palate but also offer health benefits.
6. Rucolino
- Arugula-flavored sweet liqueur
Rucolino is a unique Italian liqueur with a surprising base of arugula (rucola), offering a bittersweet taste that is both intriguing and refreshing. Originating from the islands of Ischia and Capri, it’s a testament to Italy’s creativity in liqueur production, blending herbal notes with sweetness.
7. Alchermes
- Crimson spiced liqueur
Alchermes is a distinctive crimson-colored Italian liqueur, known for its combination of spices, herbs, and floral notes, including the unique addition of rose water. Traditionally used in desserts, it’s a testament to the Italian flair for creating complex, flavor-rich liqueurs.
8. Liquore di Camomilla
- Chamomile-infused sweet liqueur
Liquore di Camomilla combines the soothing qualities of chamomile with the craftsmanship of Italian liqueur production. This sweet, floral beverage serves as a gentle digestif, showcasing Italy’s penchant for botanical-infused spirits.
9. Rosolio
- Traditional rose petal liqueur
Rosolio, once a homemade Italian liqueur, is traditionally made from rose petals, offering a delicate floral taste. This sweet, aromatic spirit, often served as a gentle digestif, captures the essence of Italian gardens in every sip.
1.2.2.) Fruit Italian Liqueurs
10. Limoncello
- Zesty lemon peel liqueur
Limoncello is Italy’s famous lemon liqueur, celebrated for its vibrant, zesty flavor derived from the finest lemon peels. This refreshing digestif, originating from Southern Italy, epitomizes the Italian summer, offering a sweet, aromatic, and invigorating experience.
11. Maraschino
- Clear cherry pit liqueur
Maraschino, a clear liqueur made from Marasca cherries, is cherished for its subtle sweetness and slight almond flavor. Originating from Dalmatia, this cherry liqueur is a favorite in both mixology and cooking, adding depth and elegance to cocktails and desserts.
12. Mirto
- Sardinian myrtle berry liqueur
Mirto is a traditional Sardinian liqueur made from the berries and sometimes leaves of the myrtle plant. Its deep red or white variants offer a glimpse into the island’s rustic flavors, embodying the essence of Sardinia’s wild landscapes.
13. Bergamotto
- Calabrian bergamot citrus liqueur
Bergamotto is a fragrant liqueur made from the distinctive bergamot orange, primarily grown in Calabria. Its citrusy, slightly bitter profile captures the essence of the Italian coastline, offering a refreshing and aromatic sip that’s uniquely Italian.
14. Tarocco
- Blood orange sweet liqueur
Tarocco liqueur celebrates the rich, sweet flavor of Sicily’s prized blood oranges. This vibrant liqueur combines the fruit’s natural sweetness with a hint of Italian craftsmanship, making it a beloved choice for adding a Sicilian twist to cocktails and desserts.
1.2.3.) Nut Italian Liqueurs
15. Amaretto
- Sweet almond-flavored liqueur
Amaretto, with its sweet, almond-like flavor, is a staple in Italian liqueur tradition, despite being made from apricot pits or almonds. This versatile liqueur is a favorite in various cocktails and culinary creations, offering a taste of Italian sweetness and warmth.
16. Nocino
- Walnut-infused spiced liqueur
Nocino is a dark, rich liqueur made from green walnuts, infused with spices and aged to perfection. This traditional Italian spirit, especially popular in Emilia-Romagna, embodies the warmth and depth of Italian winters, enjoyed as a digestif or in festive treats.
17. Frangelico
- Hazelnut and herb liqueur
Frangelico, with its rich hazelnut flavor and hints of cocoa and vanilla, is a testament to the Italian tradition of nut liqueurs. This golden hazelnut liqueur, originating from Piedmont, is a versatile spirit, perfect for enhancing cocktails or sipping neat.
1.2.4.) Anise & Licorice Italian Liqueurs
18. Sambuca
- Anise and elderflower liqueur
Sambuca, Italy’s answer to anise-flavored spirits, is renowned for its clear, potent, and slightly sweet profile, often served with coffee beans. This versatile liqueur is a key component in many Italian cocktails and a staple in Italy’s social and dining scenes.
19. Sassolino
- Anise and licorice spiced liqueur
Sassolino, with its strong anise and licorice flavors, is a traditional liqueur from the Emilia-Romagna region. This spirit captures the essence of Italian conviviality, often enjoyed as a warming digestif or a bold addition to local cocktails.
20. Anisetta
- Smooth anise seed liqueur
Anisetta, a sweet and smooth liqueur, is celebrated for its pure anise seed flavor. Originating from the Marche region, it’s a testament to Italy’s skill in creating liqueurs that offer a balance of sweetness and depth, perfect for sipping slowly after a meal.
21. Liquirizia
- Intense licorice root liqueur
Liquirizia, made from pure licorice extract, offers a deep, bittersweet flavor. This liqueur embodies the Italian penchant for utilizing local botanicals, providing a bold, distinctive taste that’s both refreshing and invigorating.
1.2.5.) Bitter Italian Liqueurs
22. Cynar
- Artichoke-based bitter liqueur
Cynar, derived from artichokes, stands out for its unique bitter and herbal flavor profile. This versatile Italian liqueur is often enjoyed as an aperitif or digestif, showcasing Italy’s innovative use of vegetables in spirit production.
23. Campari
- Iconic red bitter aperitif
Campari, with its unmistakable red hue and bitter taste, is a cornerstone of Italian aperitivo culture. This infusion of herbs and fruit is a key ingredient in classic cocktails like the Negroni and Americano, embodying the Italian flair for mixology.
24. Aperol
- Light, orange bitter aperitif
Aperol, known for its bright orange color and light, refreshing bitterness, is the star of the beloved Aperol Spritz. This aperitif, with its blend of bitter orange, gentian, rhubarb, and cinchona, is a staple in Italian social gatherings, offering a taste of Italian leisure.
2.) Italian Cocktails & Alcoholic Mixed Drinks
2.1.) Italian Cocktails
2.1.1.) Bitter Liqueur-based Italian Cocktails
25. Negroni
- Gin, vermouth, Campari cocktail
The Negroni is a quintessential Italian cocktail, blending gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari in equal parts. Served with a twist of orange, this bold, bitter cocktail is a staple in Italian bars, embodying the balance of sophistication and simplicity.
26. Aperol Spritz
- Aperol, prosecco, soda water
Aperol Spritz, Italy’s beloved aperitif, mixes Aperol, prosecco, and a splash of soda. This refreshing cocktail, with its vibrant orange hue and bittersweet taste, captures the relaxed Italian lifestyle, perfect for sipping on a sunny terrace.
27. Americano
- Campari, vermouth, soda cocktail
The Americano is a classic Italian cocktail that combines Campari, sweet vermouth, and a splash of soda water. Served over ice with a lemon twist, this light, refreshing drink is a testament to Italy’s love for bitter aperitifs.
28. Venetian Spritz
- Prosecco, bitter liqueur, soda
The Venetian Spritz, a variant of the classic Spritz, is popular in Venice, blending prosecco with a choice of bitter liqueur and a dash of soda water. This effervescent cocktail epitomizes the Venetian approach to leisure and enjoyment.
29. Garibaldi
- Campari and orange juice blend
The Garibaldi cocktail is a simple yet delightful mix of Campari and fresh orange juice. This bright, bittersweet cocktail is named after the Italian national hero, symbolizing the fusion of boldness and sweetness in Italian culture.
2.1.2.) Wine-based Italian Cocktails
30. Bellini
- Prosecco and peach purée mix
The Bellini, originating from Venice, is an elegant cocktail made with prosecco and peach purée. This light, fruity drink is a brunch favorite, showcasing the Italian flair for combining simplicity with gourmet sophistication.
31. Rossini
- Strawberry twist on the Bellini
The Rossini takes the classic Bellini to new heights with its use of fresh strawberry purée instead of peach, mixed with prosecco. This vibrant, refreshing cocktail adds a sweet, summery twist to Italy’s cocktail repertoire.
32. Tintoretto
- Pomegranate and prosecco cocktail
Tintoretto, named after the Venetian painter, is a sparkling cocktail that combines pomegranate juice with prosecco. Its rich color and refreshing taste make it a popular choice for celebrations and festive occasions in Italy.
33. Puccini
- Mandarin juice and prosecco blend
The Puccini cocktail, a delightful variation of the Bellini, uses fresh mandarin juice mixed with prosecco. This citrusy, effervescent drink is a testament to Italy’s ability to create simple yet elegant cocktails.
34. Spritz Bianco
- White wine, bitter liqueur mix
Spritz Bianco is a lighter alternative to the classic Spritz, combining white wine with a splash of bitter liqueur and soda water. This cocktail offers a crisp, refreshing taste, perfect for an Italian aperitivo hour.
35. Sgroppino
- Lemon sorbet, vodka, prosecco
Sgroppino is a refreshing Venetian cocktail that blends lemon sorbet with vodka and prosecco. This frothy, palate-cleansing drink is often enjoyed as a dessert or a delightful intermezzo between courses.
36. Hugo
- Elderflower, prosecco, mint mix
The Hugo cocktail, a relatively new addition to Italian mixology, combines elderflower syrup, prosecco, sparkling water, and fresh mint. This light, floral cocktail is a popular alternative to the Aperol Spritz, embodying modern Italian elegance.
37. Bicicletta
- Campari, white wine, soda cocktail
The Bicicletta cocktail, named after the Italian “bicycle,” combines Campari, dry white wine, and a splash of soda water. This light, refreshing drink is a favorite for leisurely sipping, capturing the carefree spirit of Italian afternoons.
2.1.3.) Other Italian Cocktails
38. Italian Margarita
- Tequila, lime, Italian liqueur
The Italian Margarita puts a unique twist on the classic Margarita by incorporating an Italian liqueur, such as limoncello, Aperol, or even amaretto. This blend of tequila, amaretto, and lime juice offers a sweet, almond-flavored variation, showcasing Italy’s knack for reinventing classic cocktails.
2.2.) Hot Italian Alcoholic Beverages
39. Vin Brulé
- Italian mulled wine with spices
Vin Brulé is Italy’s version of mulled wine, a warm, spiced beverage made by infusing red wine with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus. This comforting drink is a winter favorite in Italy, often enjoyed during festive gatherings and Christmas markets.
40. Caffè Corretto
- Espresso “corrected” with grappa
Caffè corretto, translating to “corrected coffee,” is a traditional Italian drink that combines espresso with a shot of grappa or sambuca. This invigorating blend is a popular way to conclude a meal, offering a balance of bold coffee flavor with the warmth of spirits.
3.) Italian Brewed & Fermented Alcoholic Beverages
3.1.) Italian Wine
Italian wine is internationally renowned for its extraordinary variety and quality, spanning from the robust reds of Tuscany and Piedmont to the crisp whites of Veneto and Friuli. With ancient viticultural traditions, Italy offers an array of wines including Chianti, Barolo, Prosecco, and Amarone, each embodying the rich terroir and historic winemaking techniques of its region. From the vineyard to the table, Italian wines are integral to the country’s culinary heritage, enhancing dining with their diverse flavors.
3.1.1.) Italian Red Wines
41. Chianti
- Iconic Tuscan red wine
Chianti is a classic red wine from Tuscany, known for its ruby red color and savory flavors. Made primarily from Sangiovese grapes, Chianti pairs beautifully with Italian cuisine, embodying the heart of Italian wine tradition.
42. Barolo
- “King of Wines” from Piedmont
Barolo, often referred to as the “King of Wines,” is a robust red wine from Piedmont, made from Nebbiolo grapes. Its complex flavors and ability to age make it one of Italy’s most prestigious wines, perfect for special occasions.
43. Amarone
- Rich, dried grape wine
Amarone della Valpolicella is a rich Italian wine made from partially dried grapes, resulting in concentrated flavors. Known for its full body and intense aroma, Amarone offers a unique tasting experience with a velvety texture.
44. Brunello di Montalcino
- Full-bodied Tuscan Sangiovese
Brunello di Montalcino, made from 100% Sangiovese grapes in Tuscany, is a full-bodied red wine with high tannins and bold flavors. It’s highly regarded for its depth, complexity, and aging potential, representing the pinnacle of Italian winemaking.
45. Valpolicella
- Versatile wine from Veneto
Valpolicella is a light to medium-bodied red wine from the Veneto region, known for its bright cherry flavors and slightly bitter finish. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for various occasions and pairings.
46. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
- Smooth, accessible Abruzzo wine
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, from the Abruzzo region, is appreciated for its smooth texture and approachable flavors of ripe berries and spices. This wine offers great value, combining quality with affordability.
47. Cannonau di Sardegna
- Bold Sardinian Grenache
Cannonau di Sardegna, made from Grenache (Cannonau) grapes in Sardinia, is known for its full body, high alcohol content, and flavors of red fruits and spices. It reflects the island’s rich winemaking heritage and rugged landscape.
48. Etna Rosso
- Volcanic Sicilian red wine
Etna Rosso, produced on the slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, is a distinctive red wine made primarily from the Nerello Mascalese grape. Its unique terroir imparts complex flavors and minerality, making it a standout in the Italian wine scene.
49. Dolcetto
- Fruity, soft Piedmontese red
Dolcetto, meaning “little sweet one,” is a soft, fruity wine from Piedmont, although not typically sweet as the name suggests. Its low acidity and approachable berry flavors make it a popular everyday wine.
3.1.2.) Italian White Wines
50. Soave
- Crisp, light Venetian white
Soave is a light, crisp white wine from the Veneto region, made primarily from Garganega grapes. Its refreshing acidity and subtle almond notes make it an excellent accompaniment to seafood and light dishes.
51. Gavi
- Elegant Piedmontese Cortese wine
Gavi, made from Cortese grapes in Piedmont, is an elegant white wine known for its crisp acidity, citrus flavors, and mineral undertones. It’s a refined choice that pairs well with a variety of cuisines.
52. Verdicchio
- Zesty white from Marche
Verdicchio, from the Marche region, is a zesty white wine known for its high acidity and flavors of green apple and citrus. It’s a versatile wine that complements seafood and poultry dishes beautifully.
3.1.3.) Italian Sparkling Wines
53. Prosecco
- Popular Italian sparkling wine
Prosecco is Italy’s most famous sparkling wine, originating from the Veneto region. Known for its light, frothy bubbles and fruity, floral flavors, Prosecco is a staple in celebrations and a key ingredient in many cocktails.
54. Lambrusco
- Lightly sparkling, fruity red
Lambrusco, from Emilia-Romagna, is a lightly sparkling red wine known for its fruity flavors and refreshing acidity. Its versatility makes it suitable for a range of occasions, from casual meals to festive gatherings.
55. Asti Spumante
- Sweet, lightly sparkling wine
Asti Spumante, from Piedmont, is a sweet, lightly sparkling white wine made from Moscato grapes. Its low alcohol content and fresh, grapey flavors make it a delightful dessert wine or aperitif.
56. Franciacorta
- Prestigious Italian méthode champenoise
Franciacorta, from Lombardy, is a high-quality sparkling wine made using the traditional méthode champenoise. With its complex flavors and fine bubbles, it rivals the best champagnes, embodying Italian luxury.
3.2.) Italian Beer
Italian beer has emerged from the shadows of the country’s famed wine culture, showcasing a burgeoning craft beer scene alongside traditional lagers like Peroni and Moretti. Artisanal breweries such as Baladin and Birra del Borgo are redefining Italian beer with innovative brews, combining local ingredients with creative techniques. From crisp, refreshing lagers to bold, experimental ales, Italian beer offers a diverse palette of flavors, reflecting Italy’s regional diversity and culinary excellence.
57. Peroni
- Crisp, refreshing lager
Peroni is one of Italy’s most popular lagers, appreciated for its crisp, clean taste and refreshing finish. This light, easy-drinking beer is a favorite in Italian cafes and restaurants, perfect for a casual sip.
58. Moretti
- Smooth, malty Italian beer
Moretti, another well-loved Italian beer, offers a smooth, malty flavor with a balanced hop character. Its easy drinkability and satisfying taste make it a go-to choice for beer enthusiasts in Italy.
59. Menabrea
- Balanced, artisanal Italian beer
Menabrea, known for its artisanal quality and balanced taste, is a premium Italian beer that combines tradition with craftsmanship. Its subtle flavors and refined character cater to those seeking a sophisticated beer experience.
60. Ichnusa
- Sardinian beer with a light taste
Ichnusa, originating from Sardinia, is a light, easy-drinking beer with a subtle hop flavor. It embodies the spirit of the island, offering a taste of Sardinia’s laid-back lifestyle and pristine landscapes.
61. Baladin
- Craft Italian beer with unique flavors
Baladin is a pioneering craft beer in Italy, known for its innovative and unique flavor profiles. From traditional ales to experimental brews, Baladin represents the creativity and diversity of Italy’s craft beer scene.
62. Birra del Borgo
- Innovative, experimental craft beer
Birra del Borgo is at the forefront of Italy’s craft beer movement, offering a range of experimental and traditional beers. Its dedication to quality and innovation has earned it a place among Italy’s top craft breweries.
63. Toccalmatto
- Bold, creative craft beers
Toccalmatto is known for its bold, creative approach to craft beer, producing a wide array of styles that push the boundaries of traditional brewing. This brewery exemplifies the adventurous spirit of Italy’s craft beer community.
4.) Italian Non-Alcoholic Drinks
4.1.) Cold Italian Non-Alcoholic Beverages
4.1.1.) Italian Sodas and Carbonated Drinks
64. Chinotto
- Bitter citrus soda
Chinotto is a distinctive Italian soda made from the juice of the Chinotto citrus fruit. Known for its deep, bitter flavor and dark color, this refreshing beverage is a popular alternative to traditional soft drinks, embodying the unique tastes of Italy.
65. Cedrata
- Sweet citron soft drink
Cedrata is a sweet, effervescent Italian soft drink derived from the fragrant citron fruit. With its bright, citrusy aroma and flavor, Cedrata offers a refreshing taste experience, perfect for hot summer days in Italy.
66. Aranciata
- Italian orange soda
Aranciata, Italy’s beloved orange soda, is celebrated for its use of real orange juice, giving it a fresh, natural taste. This sparkling beverage is a staple in Italian cafes and homes, offering a sweet, refreshing sip that’s quintessentially Italian.
67. Tassoni Soda
- Citrusy cedrata tonic water
Tassoni Soda is a premium Italian tonic water known for its subtle citrus flavor derived from the essence of citron. This refreshing, lightly carbonated drink is a sophisticated choice for those seeking a unique, non-alcoholic beverage option.
68. Acqua Frizzante
- Sparkling mineral water
Acqua frizzante is Italy’s answer to sparkling water, a staple in Italian dining. This naturally carbonated mineral water is often preferred for its digestive properties and ability to complement the flavors of Italian cuisine.
4.1.2.) Italian Non-Alcoholic Aperitifs
69. Sanbittèr
- Bitter herbal aperitif
Sanbittèr is a popular Italian non-alcoholic aperitif with a distinctively bitter and herbal flavor. Often served over ice with a slice of orange, it’s a refreshing alternative to alcoholic beverages, embodying the Italian aperitivo culture.
70. Crodino
- Bitter-sweet orange aperitif
Crodino is a non-alcoholic aperitif that has been enjoyed by Italians since the 1960s. Known for its rich amber color and complex bitter-sweet taste, it offers an aromatic blend of herbs and spices, making it a favorite pre-dinner drink.
4.1.3.) Other Cold Italian Non-Alcoholic Beverages
71. Orzata
- Almond-flavored milky drink
Orzata, also known as Orgeat, is a sweet Italian drink made from almond syrup and water or milk. Its rich, nutty flavor makes it a refreshing choice, often enjoyed as a cooling beverage during the warm months.
72. Bibita al caffè d’orzo
- Barley coffee cold drink
Bibita al caffè d’orzo is a refreshing barley coffee beverage, popular in Italy as a caffeine-free alternative to coffee. This chilled drink offers a mild, nutty flavor, perfect for those seeking a soothing, non-alcoholic option.
4.2.) Hot Italian Non-Alcoholic Beverages
73. Caffè
- Italian coffee
From the bustling espresso bars of Rome to the quiet cafes of Venice, Italian coffee is a symbol of social connection and culinary passion, showcasing Italy’s deep-rooted love for coffee in every sip. Italian coffee is a cornerstone of Italy’s culinary tradition, celebrated for its rich flavors and diverse preparations. For example:
- Espresso, the heart of Italian coffee culture, is enjoyed throughout the day for its intense flavor and energizing effect.
- Cappuccino and latte macchiato, with their perfect blend of espresso, steamed milk, and foam, are morning favorites, embodying the Italian art of coffee making.
Renowned brands like Lavazza and Illy reflect Italy’s dedication to quality, offering a range of blends that cater to the refined Italian palate.
74. Caffè d’orzo / Orzo in tazza
- Caffeine-free barley coffee alternative
Caffè d’orzo, or “orzo in tazza”, is a caffeine-free Italian coffee alternative made from roasted barley. With its rich, toasty flavor, it offers a comforting, nutritious drink option.
75. Cioccolata calda
- Thick Italian hot chocolate
Cioccolata calda is Italy’s version of hot chocolate, known for its thick, creamy consistency. Unlike its watery counterparts, this rich beverage is almost pudding-like, offering a decadent, warm treat during the colder months.
76. Tè
- Italian tea, various blends
Tè, or tea in Italy, may not be as central as coffee but is still enjoyed, particularly in the afternoon. Italian tea culture includes a variety of blends, from classic black teas to herbal infusions, each offering a moment of tranquility.
77. Tisane
- Herbal tea infusions
Tisane, or herbal tea, is a popular Italian beverage made from the infusion of herbs, spices, or other plant material in hot water. These caffeine-free drinks are cherished for their medicinal properties and soothing effects, perfect for relaxation.