Trend surfer: Limoncè
Stock Spirits Group is tapping into apéritif occasions through its Limoncè portfolio, including its new bottled Spritz RTD.
When life gives you Sicilian Femminello lemons, Stock Spirits Group makes them into delicious spirits and refreshing serves. Limoncè is dedicated to elevating Italian aperitivo culture in convenient Spritz formats across European markets.
Produced at the Franciacorta Distillery in Italy, Limoncè boasts a 35-year heritage in lemon-based spirits, offering new formats tailored for lower-ABV, citrus-led drinking occasions. The brand’s portfolio features Limoncè Originale, a top-selling limoncello with an ABV of 25%; Limoncè Aperitivo at 14.8% ABV; and the newly introduced Limoncè Spritz ready-to-drink (RTD) serve at 8% ABV.
At the heart of the brand is 100% Sicilian Femminello lemons stand, with the variety renowned for its aromatic intensity and high juice content. Its origin deeply connects Limoncè to Sicily and establishes its natural position in the apéritif category, where Mediterranean ingredients, citrus-forward flavours, and authenticity continue to appeal to consumers.
Limoncè Aperitivo, which launched in seven European markets in 2025, is a lighter, citrus-forward alternative to traditional bitter apéritifs. It captures the essence of classic Italian limoncello, specifically tailored for the Spritz occasion. This ‘grown-up’ aperitivo is naturally lower in sugar compared to most other orange-bitter apéritifs and contains no dyes or artificial flavour enhancers.
In April 2026, Limoncè Spritz RTD was added to the brand’s portfolio, bringing the beloved Italian aperitivo ritual into a convenient, modern 200ml glass bottle format. It can be served over ice with a slice of lemon or enjoyed straight from the bottle, making it perfect for festivals, outdoor gatherings, or relaxing moments at home.
Riding the wave
The Limoncè range aligns with the growing interest for bright, citrus flavours, particularly lemon and orange, which are driving the Spritz and apéritif markets. Lower-ABV options are crucial to this trend, as the Spritz occasion naturally lends itself to lighter, easy-to-drink beverages.
According to Mintel data from 2026, aperitivo’s momentum is largely driven by younger adult consumers, who tend to prefer drinks that are more approachable and flavour-focused than traditional spirits. Fresh, citrus-forward alternatives are especially popular among those who are trying apéritifs for the first time.
The trend is also evident on social media. Mintel data also reveals that in the UK, 54% of 18- to 24-year-olds and 55% of 25- to 34-year-olds who drink spirits report having shared images of cocktails on social media in the past six months. This highlights how the visual appeal of drinks has become a major driver of interest in the category.
The way trends develop varies by market. While the Spritz is still closely linked to the established aperitivo culture in Southern Europe, consumers in the UK and Northern Europe tend to experiment more with flavours, serving styles, and occasions. A common desire in these markets is drinks that blend flavour, sociability, and visual appeal.
RTD Spritzes continues to be one of the most dynamic categories, outpacing the overall RTD market with a 9% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) increase from 2019 to 2024 (IWSR). By offering Spritzes in pre-mixed formats, the aperitivo experience taps into outdoor, on-the-go, and at-home occasions, appealing to new consumers with convenience and consistent quality.
While RTDs continue to experience popularity peaks in spring and summer, the category is gaining year-round relevance through innovative formats and new occasions.
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