Espresso is perhaps the most iconic of all Italian beverages. This strong, concentrated coffee is served in small cups and enjoyed throughout the day. Italians often start their mornings with an espresso and may have several more throughout the day, particularly after meals. It’s a key part of Italian daily life and culture.
Cappuccino, a popular morning drink, is made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foamed milk. While cappuccino is typically consumed before 11 a.m. in Italy, it’s a beloved way to start the day with its rich, creamy texture and robust coffee flavor.
Limoncello is a sweet, lemon-flavored liqueur from the southern regions of Italy, particularly the Amalfi Coast and Sicily. Made from the zest of lemons steeped in alcohol, it’s traditionally served chilled as a digestive after meals. Its bright, citrusy flavor makes it a refreshing end to a meal.
Prosecco is Italy’s answer to Champagne. This sparkling white wine, primarily from the Veneto region, is light, fruity, and effervescent. It’s often enjoyed as an aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink, or used in cocktails like the popular Aperol Spritz.
Chianti, one of Italy’s most famous wines, hails from the Tuscany region. This red wine is made primarily from Sangiovese grapes and is known for its bold flavors, which pair well with a variety of Italian dishes, particularly those with tomato-based sauces.
Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail made with equal parts gin, vermouth rosso, and Campari, garnished with an orange peel. This bitter, aromatic drink is typically enjoyed as an aperitivo, stimulating the appetite before a meal.
Amaretto is a sweet, almond-flavored liqueur that originated in Saronno, a town in the Lombardy region. Often enjoyed on its own, over ice, or as an addition to coffee or desserts, Amaretto is a versatile and popular Italian liqueur.
Grappa is a strong, clear brandy made from the grape pomace left over from winemaking. With a high alcohol content, it’s often consumed as a digestive after meals. Grappa varies in flavor depending on the type of grapes used and the region in which it’s produced.
Aperol Spritz, a vibrant orange cocktail made with Aperol, Prosecco, and a splash of soda water, is a favorite aperitivo drink in Italy. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for sipping on a warm afternoon or before dinner.
Vin Santo is a sweet dessert wine from Tuscany, often enjoyed alongside cantucci, a type of almond biscotti. The wine’s rich, honeyed flavors make it a perfect pairing with sweet treats, rounding off a meal with a taste of Italian tradition.
A refreshing glass of limoncello