Looking for cocktail ideas for an Italian wedding? Here are 7 super refreshing signature cocktail ideas, perfect for serving at a destination wedding in Italy. While delicious cuisine is a cornerstone of Mediterranean weddings, no celebration would be complete without signature cocktails to raise a toast to the newlyweds. Please get in touch if you require a custom cocktail sign for your wedding.
What is a Typical Italian Cocktail?
Aperol Spritz
Starting the celebration with an Aperol Spritz is a quintessential Italian choice. This vibrant orange-hued cocktail is a refreshing blend of Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water. Served over ice and garnished with a slice of orange, it exudes the essence of Italian summers and complements the joyous atmosphere of a wedding.
Ingredients:
- Ice cubes
- Aperol
- Prosecco
- Club soda, served from syphon or chilled bottle
- Orange slice, for garnish
Method:
In a glass full of ice, combine prosecco and Aperol in equal parts. Add a splash of club soda and garnish with an orange slice.
Amaro Sour
Celebrate your Italian roots with an Amaro Sour, a modern take on the classic whiskey sour. Replace whiskey with an Italian amaro, such as Averna or Montenegro, and mix it with lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white for a velvety texture. The result is a harmonious blend of sweet, bitter, and sour flavours.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 ounces Amaro Nardini
- 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- 1 cherry, for garnish
Method:
First, combine the 3 main ingredients in an iced-filled shaker. Shake well and pour into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a cocktail cherry.
The Duke & Duchess
Perhaps one to serve as your evening celebrations are about to commence and you’d like to get guests up on the dance floor! This party-starting cocktail is a blend of vermouth and absinthe..
Ingredients:
- ⅓ French Vermouth
- ⅓ Italian Vermouth
- ⅓ Absinthe
Method:
Shake well and strain into a cocktail glass.
What is a Popular Cocktail in Italy?
Italian 75
This super refreshing Italian-inspired cocktail is perfect for hot summer weddings, with a slightly citrusy punch. The Italian 75 cocktail is a refreshing spin on the classic French 75, infused with the essence of Italy. This Italian wedding cocktail combines zesty lemon with the effervescence of Prosecco, resulting in a truly enchanting concoction.
Ingredients:
- 1 ounce dry gin
- 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup (1:1 water & sugar)
- Prosecco
Method:
Add the first 3 ingredients to a cocktail shaker, fill with ice, and shake. Strain into a flute or saucer and top with prosecco.
Ava Gardner
A pretty, delicate and feminine cocktail, created by ‘Splendido Mare, a Belmond Hotel’ to honour the American actress Ava Gardner, who notoriously adored Champagne and all-things pink. (She stayed at the hotel while filming the 1954 film Barefoot Contessa with Humphrey Bogart.) Paying tribute to this iconic actress, the "Ava Gardner" cocktail is a delightful concoction that exudes elegance and sophistication. Just like Ava's legendary charm, this cocktail combines intriguing flavours and an alluring presentation that will transport you to the glamour of a bygone era.
Ingredients:
- 25 mL London dry gin
- 20 mL raspberry liquor
- 15 mL orange curaçao
- 15 mL fresh lemon juice
- 5 mL simple syrup
- Dry sparkling wine
Method:
First, add the 5 main ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice, shake well, and top with sparkling wine.
What are Good Wedding Signature Cocktails?
Hugo
The Hugo cocktail's crisp and herbal flavours, combined with a touch of floral sweetness, make it an irresistible cocktail to serve at Italian wedding receptions. The Hugo cocktail has its origins in the stunning alpine region of South Tyrol, Italy. Created by Roland Gruber, a bartender from the city of Naturns, the Hugo was initially crafted as a non-alcoholic aperitif, emphasizing the region's abundant fresh ingredients. Its popularity soared, and it soon underwent a transformation by adding Prosecco and elderflower liqueur to create the spirited version we know and love today.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz or 6 cl Prosecco
- 2 oz or 6 cl Soda
- 1 oz or 3 cl Elderflower syrup
- 4 mint leaves
Bellini
Indulge your guests with the romance of Venice by serving up the delightful Bellini. This exquisite cocktail combines prosecco with fresh white peach puree, exuding an air of elegance and refinement. Its soft blush hue and sweet taste make it a favourite with wedding guests.
Ingredients:
- 3 1/4 oz or 10 cl Prosecco
- 1 3/4 oz or 5 cl White Peach Puree
As you plan your day, don't forget the importance of curating a captivating cocktail menu for an Italian wedding. These handpicked Italian-inspired cocktails are sure to elevate the spirits and merriment of your guests as they join you in toasting to love, happiness, and a lifetime of cherished memories. By incorporating these delightful concoctions, you'll add a touch of Italian charm and create an unforgettable celebration that reflects the essence of this romantic and culturally rich country. Salute to love, laughter, and happily ever after, in the sun!
Signature Cocktail Signs
I offer a bespoke design service, so please contact me, if you require a signature cocktail sign for your wedding. The colours can be adapted to your colour scheme, and I also do cocktail signs with dogs too!
