When in Rome, drink as the Romans drink. Whether enjoying a rooftop view of the Colosseum, promenading along the Spanish Steps, or touring local bars and restaurants, the following 5 boozy beverages are sure to get you into the Italian spirit on your Roman vacation:
1. The Negroni
The Negroni is an Italian classic. Equal parts sweet vermouth, Campari, and gin. Served on the rocks and garnished with an orange peel. The Negroni is arguably the most versatile of all Italian cocktails, as countless variations exist, e.g. the Negroni Sbagliato, the White Negroni, and the Boulevardier, to name a few. In one form or another, the Negroni and its extended family (including its oft forgotten father, the Americano) are here to stay.
2. The Aperol Spritz
This refreshing Italian drink is traditionally enjoyed as an aperitivo. The Aperol Spritz is made with 3 parts prosecco, 2 parts Aperol, and 1 part soda water. Served on the rocks and garnished with an orange slice. While the Aperol Spritz has long dominated the realm of bitter & bubbly, other versions of this drink have become increasingly popular, namely the Limoncello Spritz, the Hugo Spritz, and the Averna Spritz. Whatever your particular tastes, one of these spritzes is sure to quench your thirst.
3. The Martini
The origins of the martini are uncertain. While some believe it was invented in the US, others assume the martini derives from the Italian brand of vermouth Martini & Rossi. In any case, this world-renowned drink deserves a spot on our list. A traditional martini comprises 2 parts gin (or vodka) and 1 part dry vermouth. Shaken or stirred with ice and served in a cocktail glass. As with the Negroni and the Aperol Spritz, there exist countless variations of the martini, e.g. the Cosmopolitan, Manhattan, Espresso Martini, and Cosmaro (a Roman Vacations favorite). Recurrently associated with sophistication and glamour, the martini has been around for over a hundred years and still hasn’t lost its charm. Perfect for a night out on your Roman Vacation.
4. Amaro
For centuries Italians have been stocking their kitchen cabinets and bar shelves with amari. Traditionally consumed after dinner as a digestivo, this bitter-sweet, herbal liqueur can be served neat, on the rocks, or as part of a cocktail. At Roman Vacations, our brand-name favorites include CalAmaro, Montenegro, Averna, and Fernet Branca.
5. Wine & Prosecco
Great wine abounds in all regions of Italy. Northern regions like Veneto and Fruili-Venezia Giulia are known for producing a variety of Pinot Grigio, Merlot, and Prosecco. Tuscany is famous for its Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Montepulciano wines. At Roman Vacations, our favorite wines from Lazio and neighboring regions are Cesanese di Olevano Romano ‘Silene’ (red), Frascati Superiore 496 De Sanctis (white), and Pecorino IGT ‘Aufinum’ (white). For birthdays, graduations, and weddings—or any occasion at all—we suggest celebrating with a glass of Valdo Prosecco Superiore DOCG ‘Vigna Pradase’ or Mionetto Prosecco DOC. Perfect on their own or in a spritz, these proseccos from northern Italy are two of our affordable favorites.
You can find these 5 boozy beverages almost anywhere in Rome, but if you’re looking for the best local bars and restaurants, we encourage you to join us on one of our Food Tours or Aperitivo Tours – Daje! Raise a glass with us and get into the Italian spirit!
Recent Comments