Aperitivo

An aperitivo is an alcoholic beverage usually served before a meal to stimulate the appetite and is therefore usually dry rather than sweet.

History

Aperitivos or apéritif in France, became widespread in Italy during the nineteenth century Italy. They were commonly served in, where they were fashionable cafés, such as in Turin (where modern Vermouth originates from), Rome, Genoa, Florence, Milan and Venice.
The popularity of apertivos throughout Europe grew during the nineteenth century. By 1900 it had crossed the Atlantic, with apéritif becoming common in the United States.

Production

Common choices for an apéritif are vermouth, champagne, pastis, gin, rakı, fino, amontillado or s styles of dry sherry any still, dry, light white wine.

In Italy, vermouth or wine may be served as the aperitivo. Martini, Aperol Spritz, Select Aperitivo, and Campari with soda are also popular aperitivo drinks of choice.
In France, the apéritifs vary across the country. pastis is popular in the South, whilst Calvados brandy is more commonly taken in the northern Normandy region and Crémant d’Alsace in the east. Champagne wine or Cognac may also be served. Kir, also called Blanc-cassis, a very popular apéritif-cocktail made with crème de cassi s(blackcurrant liqueur) topped with white wine. The Kir Royal is when white wine is replaced with Champagne. A simple glass of red wine, such as young Beaujolais can also be an apéritif, often accompanied by amuse-bouches.
In the Eastern Mediterranean, arak is usually served with mezze.
In Britain and Ireland sherry and dry madeira are are traditional apéritifs.

Types

Popular types of aperitif include Vermouth,  champagne, pastis, Calvados, still dry light white wine, Kir, fino, dry or Madeira sherry, arak, raki.

There are a number of cocktails which can be served as an aperitif, such as Select Aperitivo.

Origins

Europe

Aperitifs are popular across Europe, particularly in France, Spain and Italy.

Subscribe to our e-newsletter

It’s an exciting time for Spirits Platform. We only email you when we’ve got something exciting to share.

Sign up now

 

Are you of legal drinking age in your country of residence?

You must be of legal drinking age to enter this website. This website uses cookies.
By entering our website, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

 

I am looking for