During my travels in Italy, I quickly realized that iced coffee is not as common here as it is in places like Canada or the US, where cold coffee drinks are widely available. Instead, Italians often stick to traditional hot espresso drinks. But in the southern region of Puglia, I encountered the delicious Caffè Leccese, an inventive and refreshing way to enjoy coffee cold. The key to Caffè Leccese is the use of latte di mandorla, which is almond syrup or almond milk, added to a shot of espresso and served over ice. This combination gives the drink a subtly sweet, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the espresso. Unlike typical iced coffees that might dilute espresso with lots of ice or milk, Caffè Leccese’s almond syrup stands out as a distinctive ingredient, giving it a unique regional twist. I tried making it myself after buying almond syrup at a local grocery store. The process is pretty simple: brew a fresh espresso shot, pour it over ice, add the almond syrup to taste (though I suggest starting with less, as it can get very sweet!), and top it off with some milk. Adjusting the milk quantity helps balance the drink’s richness and sweetness. As a Canadian familiar with large iced coffee drinks, I found the Italian take notably different but equally satisfying. It’s a perfect refresher in the hot Italian summer and a great way to experience local coffee culture with a twist. If you’re visiting Italy and craving a cold coffee, seeking out a Caffè Leccese in Puglia or trying to make it yourself is a rewarding experience full of local flavor.