Limoncello vs. Gin: What’s the Real Difference?

At Banks & Solander, we’re passionate about both gin and liqueurs, but they’re definitely not the same—and that’s especially true when it comes to limoncello. One question we get a lot is, “Is limoncello a type of gin?” The short answer is no, and there are quite a few reasons why!

Let’s start with gin. In Australia, gin is legally defined as a spirit with an alcohol content of at least 37.5% ABV, and it must feature juniper berries. Juniper, a small seed that grows on conifer trees, gives gin its signature piney, almost herbal taste, often with a hint of resin. If you’ve ever sipped gin and thought it reminded you of fresh pine forests, that’s the juniper talking. But gin’s depth doesn’t stop at juniper; it’s a spirit that incorporates a wide range of botanicals like citrus peel, coriander seeds, and even native Australian botanicals like lemon myrtle or wattleseed, creating a wide spectrum of gin styles.

Traditional London Dry gin is known for its sharp, dry profile and has juniper as the main flavour profile with a few other supporting botanicals while contemporary gins—like our own—play with botanical blends to offer other flavours as well as the juniper.

 One crucial point about gin is that it contains no added sugar (with the exception of sweeter styles like Old Tom gin). This is why gin is often described as dry, making it the perfect base for cocktails like a G&T, negroni, or martini. Gin’s versatility and complexity make it a favourite in cocktail culture, but it’s also enjoyable neat for those who appreciate its layered botanical notes.

Limoncello and its cousin, our limecello, on the other hand are liqueurs, not spirits like gin, and the difference is significant. The biggest distinction between gin and liqueurs is the sweetness and the absence of juniper. In Australia, liqueurs must meet certain legal criteria: they must have a minimum of 15% ABV, but limoncello often has around 25-30% ABV. Equally important, liqueurs are required to have at least 100 grams of sugar per litre, which is what gives them their signature sweetness.

Limoncello is a traditional Italian liqueur , particularly famous along Italy’s Amalfi Coast, located in the south. It’s made by steeping lemon zest in high-proof alcohol, usually for several weeks, allowing the essential oils from the zest to infuse the alcohol. Afterward, the infusion is blended with sugar syrup, creating that yellow, citrus-forward liqueur that’s beloved around the world. At Banks & Solander, we craft our limoncello and limecello using fresh zest and an extra twist: we also add lemon juice and lemon myrtle to enhance the flavour, resulting in a well-rounded, aromatic liqueur with both tangy and sweet notes. This creates a smoother, more balanced sip with an extra touch of Australia.

While traditionally served ice-cold as a digestif after meals—straight from the freezer in a chilled glass—limoncello’s uses have expanded. It’s a fantastic ingredient in cocktails, adding a sweet, citrusy kick to mixed drinks. Limoncello spritzes, where it’s paired with soda and prosecco, have become especially popular, and it even shines when drizzled over desserts like ice cream or sorbet.

 So, what really sets gin and limoncello apart? It’s not just their flavours but their purpose and how they’re enjoyed. Gin is typically the foundation for cocktails, offering a bold, botanical base that’s layered and complex. On the other hand, limoncello is a liqueur designed to be sweet, refreshing, and zesty. Whether you sip it after dinner or use it to brighten up a cocktail, limoncello is all about sweet indulgence.

And for those who like to experiment, the two can even be mixed! A great cocktail idea is to combine equal parts of our Signature Gin and Limoncello, pour it over ice, and top with soda. This blend brings together the sharp, herbal notes of gin with the bright, citrusy sweetness of limoncello—a match made in cocktail heaven!

 So while gin and liqueurs, like our ‘cellos are both delicious, and both have their place on your drinks trolley, they’re fundamentally very different.