Cocktails with Limoncello
Limoncello is an Italian lemon liqueur from the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento. Made from lemon zest steeped in spirit, it's intensely citrus and sweet.
- Type
- Liqueur
- Strength
- 26–32% ABV
- Aroma
- Fresh lemon zest, Bright citrus, Floral
- Taste
- Intense lemon, Sweet, Zesty, Slightly oily
- Finish
- Lemon, Sweet, Clean
3 drinks with Limoncello
History
Originated in Southern Italy, likely Capri or Sorrento, in the early 1900s. Each family had their own recipe. It became globally popular in the 1990s as a digestivo and cocktail ingredient. Best versions use Sorrento or Amalfi lemons.
How it’s made
Made by macerating lemon peels (zest only, no pith) in neutral spirit for weeks, then diluting with sugar syrup. The peel releases intense lemon oils without bitterness. Traditional versions are quite sweet and viscous.
Bottles to try
Pallini LimoncelloMid-range
Well-balanced Italian limoncello from Amalfi lemons.
Luxardo LimoncelloMid-range
Made from Sicilian lemons, clean and intensely citrus.
Villa MassaPremium
Premium Sorrento limoncello, aromatic with IGP lemons.
Got Limoncello at home?
Add it to your bar in Proof and see every drink you can make with the bottles you already have.