Before traveling through Italy, I had never tasted Limoncello! I am not a fan of sweet drinks or liquors so it had never really occurred to me to purchase it on my own. But when traveling, I feel strongly about trying new things - foods, drinks, cultural experiences - and so limoncello was definitely on my list for this trip.

Limoncello is an Italian lemon liqueur - and while I was offered it throughout northern Italy, I believe it’s mainly produced in more of the southern regions. This makes sense to me - because during our trips through Sorrento and Capri, the lemons were abundant! Citrus trees lined the paths where we walked and the blooms filled the air with such a memorable scent. The shops and vendors offered lemon-scented everything, too - from soaps and perfumes to food and drink. I love all things lemon, so these were some of my favorite days during our trip! Capri, Italy is probably the most beautiful place I have ever been.

After touring the island we visited an outdoor eating venue that boasted a Limoncello Spritzer that was the best you could find. It supposedly had some “secret” ingredients in it to make it unique! I never found out what was in it, but it was so incredibly refreshing - not too sweet and the perfect accompaniment to our seats by the beautiful, green waters. It’s taken me quite a while to get around to recreating this amazing drink, but here is a replication that I (and my travel mates) came up with.

Limoncello Spritzer Copycat

Ingredients:

• Limoncello - you can purchase this or make some of your own (it takes a few weeks to cure.)

• Prosecco or Sparkling White Wine

• Vodka (optional)

• Citrus-flavored Seltzer

• Citrus-flavored Sorbet or Sherbert

• Limes, Oranges and fruit for garnish

This recipe is for reference, you can use amounts that work best for you. This makes 1 serving, but you could also make this in a pitcher to serve to groups. I think it looks pretty to layer the ingredients in each glass.

• Fill a glass with ice and add 1 oz. of limoncello.

• Add 4 oz. of prosecco

• Top off with flavored citrus sparkling soda or club soda

• Garnish with fresh fruits and an optional small scoop of sorbet or sherbert (optional)