When it comes to classic Italian Aperitivo Cocktails that elevate our summer evenings on the terrace, we have the Italians to thank. From the Bellini to the Negroni, Garibaldi, or a simple Vermouth & Tonic, these timeless drinks are synonymous with relaxation and good company. Here, we’ve curated some of our favorite Italian aperitivo recipes that you can easily recreate at home.
Bellini
- 2 oz white peach purée
- Top with prosecco
Preparation: Build directly in a highball glass.
Glassware: Highball Garnish: No garnish
Not More Than 20
- 1 oz Campari
- 0.5 oz Bénédictine
- 0.5 oz Old Tom Gin
- 0.33 oz peach liqueur (approximately 1/3 oz or 2 teaspoons)
Preparation: Stir in a mixing glass, then strain into a coupette glass.
Glassware: Coupette
Garnish: Orange twist
Coffee Negroni
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 teaspoon ground coffee
Preparation: Combine all ingredients, then filter through an Aeropress. Stir and serve in a whisky glass.
Glassware: Whisky glass
Garnish: Orange twist
Garibaldi
- 1.5 oz Campari
- Top with freshly blended orange juice*
Preparation: Build directly in a highball glass.
Glassware: Highball
Garnish: Orange wedge
Pro Tip: Blend fresh orange juice for 6 seconds to achieve a fluffy texture that enhances the cocktail’s mouthfeel.
Vermouth & Tonic
- 1.5 oz dry Italian vermouth
- Top with tonic water
Preparation: Build directly in a highball glass.
Glassware: Highball
Garnish: Olive
Photos by: Daniel Banic
Location: Antique American Bar
