“When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s amore. When the world seems to shine like you’ve had too much wine, that’s amore!”
But really! Who needs wine when Italy offers such a delightful array of non-alcoholic beverages?
Beyond the art, the pizza, and the romantic canals of Venice lies a tradition of beverages that capture the essence of Italian life without the need for alcohol.
These non-alcoholic Italian beverages are as refreshing as a Vespa ride through the Tuscan countryside and have been a favorite in many Italian gatherings. Each sip will transport you to a sunlit piazza. You might even start browsing for flight deals to Italy after a couple of glasses.
Andiamo!
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Mocktails in Italy: A Brief History
While Italy is often pictured with wine-filled feasts and those iconic limoncello moments, there’s another side to its beverage story. Italy has been crafting delicious non-alcoholic beverages for ages. From Italian mineral water like San Pellegrino to caffe lattes, there is something for everyone.
So, when you think of an Italian escape, look beyond the wine glass. A world of flavors is waiting for you and, believe us, they’re authentically Italian and absolutely delizioso.
How Easy Is It to Order Mocktails in Italy Today?
Today, Italy warmly embraces the mocktail culture. While wine might be the queen at many tables, non-alcoholic alternatives are trying to take over the crown, as well, especially among the younger and health-savvy crowd.
You can enjoy the finest Italian sodas, cappuccinos, and mixed drinks featuring fresh orange juice, mineral water, and non-alcoholic spirits. You’ll find non-alcoholic options with flavors from grapefruit to dark chocolate to rhubarb.
So, if you really are jetting off to Italy anytime soon and want to keep things light and alcohol-free, we’ve got the perfect spots for you.
Check out this list of hip bars, and we can guarantee you’ll be sipping on some of the most refreshing mocktails you’ve ever tasted.
Best Bars with Mocktails in Italy
Principe Bar
Sipping a drink at Principe Bar in Milan is like sipping a drink in a scene straight out of a movie. The interiors were imagined by the French designer and architect, Thierry Despont.
Handcrafted mocktails coupled with the chef’s Italian canapés—all from a setting that screams opulence—Principe Bar is the place where evenings effortlessly turn into nights. And, with their innovative mocktail recipes, you won’t even miss the alcohol.
Drink to Try: Workout at the Bar
Giardino Bar
Imagine sipping a mocktail that captures the essence of Rome in a glass. Giardino Bar offers just that. With a view that’s nothing short of breathtaking (and an incredible sunset), it’s the perfect spot to relax, Italian style.
Located on Pincian Hill, the windows look out to Il Vittoriano, St. Peters, the grand Villa Medici, and the Borghese gardens. And if you’re in the mood for some Italian tapas to take it all in, this bar has got you covered.
Drink to Try: Vanilla & Mirtilli
Ambrosia Rooftop Restaurant & Bar
When in Rome, do as the Romans do. And if you’re at Ambrosia, that means trying out the “tea of the desert” mocktail, a masterpiece by the talented bartender, Maurizio.
It’s a tropical delight that’ll have you coming back for more. Just be sure to pair it with some fresh pasta from chef Massimo Gonnella… and chocolate cake for dessert.
Drink to Try: Tea of the Desert
Bohème Mixology Bar
Bar where there’s no menu, but the bartender crafts a drink just for you? That’s Catania’s Bohème. Their drinks are as amazing as the whole bar’s atmosphere.
Plus, there’s that personal touch to every mocktail, so this spot definitely offers an experience you won’t forget.
And oh, the wardrobe leading to the toilets? It’s a hit, especially if you’re in for a little Narnia magic.
Drink to Try: The one made just for you!
7 Non-Alcoholic Drinks from Italy
Alright, for the folks who aren’t going to Italy, you can still buckle up and drink something more fun than a plain club soda!
Picture this: You, chilling in your backyard, sun hat on, sipping on an Italian NA spritz, pretending you’re on a Roman balcony overlooking the Colosseum.
Sounds dreamy, right?
1. Crodino
Crodino is a non-alcoholic Italian aperitif that is often enjoyed as a refreshing herbal drink. Its complex and distinctive flavor profile is characterized by its bittersweet taste, with a combination of citrus and herbal notes. The specific blend of herbs and botanicals used in its production is a closely guarded secret, but it typically includes ingredients like orange, quinine, and other aromatic herbs.
Crodino is amber in color and is often served over ice in a short glass before a meal. It is garnished with a twist of orange peel, which enhances its citrus aroma and complements the flavor.
History
It was first created in 1964 by the Italian company Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. The name “Crodino” is thought to be inspired by the Crodo region in northern Italy, which is known for its pristine water sources and alpine landscapes. The choice of name and its association with this region may have been intended to evoke a sense of purity and naturalness.
Ingredients
To make a Crodino-like aperitivo at home, you can try mixing various non-alcoholic ingredients, such as:
- Orange bitters
- Tonic water
- Soda water
- Other aromatic herbs to create a similar bittersweet and herbal aperitif.
Experimenting with the ingredients and proportions will help you craft a drink that suits your taste preferences.
Remember that the exact recipe for Crodino is a well-guarded secret, so creating an identical replica may be challenging. Nevertheless, it can be an enjoyable and creative process to experiment with non-alcoholic aperitif recipes at home.
Where to Buy Crodino
The best place to find Crodino is on Amazon or in some specialty liquor stores, Italian markets, or online retailers that specialize in imported beverages. The availability may vary by location, so it’s a good idea to check with local stores or online sources that specialize in international drinks.
2. Cedrata: Calabria’s Cool Kid on the Block
Straight from the sunny coasts of Calabria, Cedrata is an Italian punchy soft drink that is all about the ancient citron fruit. Traditionally sipped during those scorching Calabrian afternoons, it’s the go-to refresher and local’s secret weapon against the heat.
What gives this Italian soda its unique kick? It’s all thanks to the citron fruit, the lemon’s chiller cousin.
History
Cedrata owes its name and flavor to the citron, known as “cedro” in Italian. This citrus fruit, with its quirky golden, knobbly look, is like the granddaddy of the citrus world.
Even though its outer skin is a bit on the bitter side, the thick, spongy rind, which makes up 70% of the fruit, is surprisingly sweet. The citron has some cool stories to tell, from being used as a remedy against poison to playing a starring role in religious events like the Jewish Sukkot.
And guess what? The citrons from the Diamante area in Calabria are the star ingredient in Cedrata, that awesome drink by the Cedrata Tassoni Soda company.
Here’s how to make it at home:
Ingredients
- 2 large mature citron
- 1/2 cup sugar
- Water
- Sparkling water
How to Whip It Up
Grab those citrons and squeeze out the good stuff! In a saucepan, blend the citron juice, sugar and water.
Heat until the sugar waves a white flag and dissolves.
Let it cool off a bit. Add some sparkling water for a fizzy twist. For a flavor boost, drop in ice cubes, mint or a hint of citron zest.
Where to Buy Cedrata
You can find Cedrata at specialty online stores like Dolce Terra or Made in Eatalia.
3. Chinotto: Liguria’s Flavor Rollercoaster
Straight out of the green heart of Liguria, this drink is a whole mood. It’s like Italy took its love for all things bitter, added a dash of sweetness and bottled it up.
It’s perfect for resetting your taste buds, especially after those big Italian feasts.
And that wild mix of sweet and bitter? That’s all thanks to this little citrus fruit called chinotto.
Trust us, once you try it, you’ll be talking about it at every dinner party!
History
You know how Italians are all about that bitter kick? From their salads to those fancy Negroni cocktails. Well, Chinotto is Italy’s sassy answer to American Coca-Cola.
Fun fact: Chinotto isn’t just a bubbly drink; it’s a fruit! Imagine asking for an apple and getting a Sprite.
This tiny citrus gem, no bigger than a ping-pong ball, has been in Italy since a Ligurian sailor brought it over from China in the 1500s. Today, it’s living its best life in scenic spots like Liguria, nestled beside posh vineyards.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chinotto syrup
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup sparkling water
How to Whip It Up
In a glass, mix chinotto syrup and sugar until they’re best buddies. Add ice to the glass, pour in the sparkling water, give it a gentle stir and savor the flavor journey!
Homemade Chinotto Syrup Recipe:
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Roughly slice the chinotto fruit and place it in a baking dish. Sprinkle it liberally with cinnamon sticks, coriander seeds and a touch of nutmeg.
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake until the sugar in the fruit caramelizes and the edges begin to look burned.
Once cooled, strain the mixture to get your chinotto syrup.
Where to Buy Chinotto
In the US, your best bet for buying Chinotto is via Amazon or a specialty online store like supermarketitaly.com.
4. Orzata: Sicily’s Almond Dream
Think almond milk, but dressed up for a Sicilian carnival. That’s Orzata. Creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-almondy. Back in the day, Orzata was the drink of Sicilian royalty. Now? It’s everyone’s fave almond treat.
History
Orzata has been the almond MVP since the 8th century. It started with barley (hence the name), but modern Sicilians said, “Let’s make it nutty!” And so, the almond version was born.
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Splash of lemon juice
How to Whip It Up
Mix up the almond milk, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice. Chill and serve with a cheeky almond on top.
Where to Buy Orzata
Amazon, as well as supermarkets like Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods sell both Orzata syrup and almond milk, which you can use to create an Orzata drink.
5. Granita: Sicily’s Frosty Sensation
Ever been to Sicily in the summer? If so, you’ve probably seen locals flocking to Granita stalls.
This isn’t just your average slushie; it’s a dessert, a tradition, and a summer essential all in one.
This drink is for you, whether you’re into zesty lemon, rich almond, or even coffee. You name it.
History
Granita has ancient roots, with its origins dating back to the Arab domination of Sicily. The Arabs introduced sherbet to the island, a drink made with fruit juice flavored with rose water and then iced.
Over time, this evolved into the Sicilian granita we know today: a delightful blend of water, sugar, and fruit. It’s frozen slowly, stirred continuously, resulting in a creamy yet granular texture that sets it apart from any other icy treat.
In Sicily, it’s a ritual to enjoy granita with a soft, fragrant pastry called brioche. So, if you’re ever in Sicily, remember to dip that brioche right into your granita for the full experience!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (or other flavors like almond or coffee)
How to Whip It Up
Mix sugar in water until it’s all friendly and dissolved, then add your choice of flavor.
Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, give it a little scrape with a fork until you get that perfect slushy texture. Serve in a glass with a smile and, if you have one, a spoon!
6. Caffè Shakerato: Italy’s Frothy Coffee Marvel
Espresso, sugar, ice, and a whole lot of shaking. Welcome to Italy’s answer to the summer heat. When the Italian sun is relentless, locals know it’s Caffè Shakerato time.
This isn’t just iced coffee; this Italian coffee is a symphony of bold espresso, sweet sugar, and a frothy finish, all shaken to perfection.
History
This modern Italian marvel is all about that shake. The name “shakerato” is a nod to its English origins, but with an Italian flair. While it might seem like a recent trend, this shaken coffee has been the Italian summer staple for years.
This drink is not just about the ingredients; it’s the art of the shake that makes it special. Once you try it, you’ll know why.
Ingredients
- 1 shot of espresso
- 1/2 cup ice
- 1-2 teaspoons sugar
How to Whip It Up
Brew a shot of espresso and let it cool just a tad. In a shaker, combine the espresso, sugar, and ice. Give it a good ol’ shake until it’s frothy and fabulous.
Pour into a glass, take a sip, and let those Italian summer vibes roll in.
7. Pallini Limonzero
Last but not least, if you love limoncello, the Italian liqueur made from lemon zest, but don’t want to drink alcohol, there is finally an answer: Pallini Limonzero!
Crafted with the renowned Sfusato lemons from the Amalfi Coast, it offers the delightful taste of a Limoncello cocktail without the alcoholic content. You can top it with whipped cream if you want to get extra fancy and garnish with a lemon peel.
History
The precise origin of Limoncello is debated, but it is generally associated with Southern Italy, particularly the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento, and the island of Capri. It is believed to have been created in the early 20th century, although homemade lemon-infused spirits were made in the region long before commercial production.
Pallini was founded by Nicola Pallini in Antrodoco, Italy, in 1875. It started as a small distillery, producing various spirits and liqueurs, including traditional Italian fruit liqueurs. While Pallini is known for producing various liqueurs, it is most famous for its Limoncello.
In 2022, Pallini Limonzero received the prestigious Master award at the Global Spirits Masters competition, recognized for its striking resemblance to traditional Limoncello. It’s perfect for creating non-alcoholic or low-alcohol cocktails like the Spritz or Pallini Palmer, and for special occasions, indulge in the Limonzero Martini.
Where to Buy Pallini Limonzero
You can buy this zero-proof limoncello on Dry Atlas or you can try making your own with this non-alcoholic limoncello recipe.
Arrivederci with a Splash of Wellness!
As we wrap up our Italian escapade, we hope you enjoyed our alcohol-free adventure. With these Italian drinks, you’re not just sipping on flavors; you’re embracing a European lifestyle of joy and health. Cook up some of your favorite Italian food and don’t forget to accompany it with any of these delicious bevs.
Want more mocktail magic? Check out the vibrant world of Spanish alcohol-free beverages or our ultimate guide to alcohol alternatives.
Here’s to sips that bring hearty laughs and memories made over a glass of Italian goodness.
Cin cin!
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