What is an Aperitif? A Guide to Aperitivo
WHAT IS AN APERITIF?
An aperitif is more than just a pre-dinner drink; it’s a cultural experience rooted in the Italian tradition of aperitivo. But what is an aperitif?
Meaning “to open” in Italian, an “aperitif” is a light tasting alcoholic beverage served before a meal to stimulate the appetite. Unlike sugary cocktails, aperitifs are typically bitter, with the taste of botanical herbs, citrus, or spices. This bitterness prepares the palate for food rather than dulling the appetite.
Aperitifs generally have a moderate alcohol content of 11-25%, setting the stage for a leisurely dining experience, encouraging relaxed socialising.
APERITIVO: THE ITALIAN TRADITION
In Italy, the aperitivo is more than just a drink; it’s a daily ritual. Traditionally enjoyed between 5 PM and 8 PM, aperitivo time is an opportunity to unwind, connect with friends, and savour the moment. While similar to the concept of a happy hour, the Italian aperitivo focuses on high-quality ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere.
APERITIF VS. DIGESTIF: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
Though both are enjoyed around meals, aperitifs and digestifs serve opposite purposes:
- Aperitifs are enjoyed before a meal to encourage your appetite. They are typically lighter, drier and have a lower alcohol content.
- Digestifs are consumed after a meal to help you unwind and digest. They are often stronger in alcohol content and sweeter than aperitifs. If aperitifs are the starting course, digestifs are the dessert. Some popular digestifs include amaro liqueur, grappa brandy, and port wine.
HOW TO SERVE AN APERITIF
Aperitif drinks are typically served chilled, often with a splash of soda or tonic water for a lighter, more refreshing experience.
Classic glassware includes:
- Coupes – Elegant and timeless for vermouth-based cocktails.
- Wine glasses – Ideal for spritzes and fortified wines.
- MARTINI glasses – A sophisticated choice for classic aperitif cocktails.
BEST APERITIF DRINKS TO TRY
Some classic Italian aperitifs include cocktails made with sweet vermouth, such as the Negroni or Americano. Contrary to what the name suggests, sweet vermouth has a balanced, rich and herbal character, which makes it a perfect choice for an aperitif. Dry vermouth offers a lighter, drier profile compared to its sweet counterpart and is typically used in classic cocktails like the MARTINI cocktail. Whilst many traditional aperitifs involve enjoying vermouth neat, the effervescent Spritz cocktail and other classic Italian cocktails are popular options to explore.
MARTINI Bianco Spritz
With sweet vanilla notes from MARTINI® Bianco adding a delicate botanical flavour to the crisp prosecco, this aperitivo is a sweet, aromatic experience.
MARTINI Rosato Spritz
Light and aromatic, MARTINI® Rosato is the perfect complement to fizzing prosecco on a warm day. With rich notes of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg alongside a dash of citrus, this Spritz cocktail is a lightly spiced delight.
MARTINI Non-Alcoholic Vibrante Spritz
The complex citrus notes of MARTINI® Vibrante shine in this bright, fizzy, and refreshing drink thanks to the bubbling soda water and bitter edge of grapefruit juice, making this Spritz your perfect non-alcoholic aperitivo companion.
MARTINI Americano
An aperitif with timeless charm and a story as intriguing as its taste. Its roots trace back to the 1880s, when the elegant trio of vermouth, bitter and soda first appeared. By the 1930s, the Americano had secured its place in cocktail culture and in MARTINI advertising. Served in a highball, it became the epitome of relaxed Italian sophistication. And today, it still is.
MARTINI Fiero & Tonic
With notes of zesty blood orange, MARTINI® Fiero unlocks a blend of bittersweet citrus and crisp white wine that creates a playful and refreshing cocktail when mixed with bubbly tonic water.
MARTINI Bianco & Tonic
Transforming MARTINI® Bianco into a long drink, ice-cold tonic water softens the sweet vanilla notes of the white vermouth for a crisper, cleaner finish. Serve in a balloon glass, packed with ice to help concentrate the fragrant botanicals for a more intensely aromatic experience.
MARTINI Riserva Speciale Rubino & Tonic
For a long-lasting, rich, bitter and herbal character, enhancing the red sandalwood and artemisia, combine MARTINI® Riserva Speciale Rubino with tonic and present with a caper-berry and orange garnish.
EMBRACE THE APERITIF LIFESTYLE
Now that you know what an aperitif is and the true aperitif meaning, it’s time to embrace this European tradition. Whether you’re sipping a classic Negroni, enjoying a Spritz, or discovering a new vermouth-based cocktail, the aperitif is a simple yet sophisticated way to elevate your dining experience. So, the next time you’re looking for a way to unwind and enjoy a meal with your loved ones, consider embracing the art of Italian aperitivo. With our emphasis on quality ingredients, good company, and a relaxed atmosphere, aperitifs offer a unique way to enhance your pre-dinner experience.