Apéritifs have long been consumed as a prelude to a nice meal, but what exactly makes this drink a way to mark the start of dinner and not the end of it? It’s time to take a look at the significance of this particular alcoholic beverage.
What is an apéritif?
An apéritif is an alcoholic drink that is most commonly enjoyed before a meal. Its name comes from the Latin word “aperire” which means “to open.” The drink itself is very light, stimulating the appetite just the right amount without spoiling it. Apéritifs can refer to a variety of drinks, from cocktails to even wines.
You may be wondering, “Why would people drink something that would fill them up before they eat?” Well, the whole purpose of an apéritif is to open up the taste palates before the meal so that it can fully take in the flavours of the meal ahead.
When did people start drinking apéritif?
Like most alcohols, apéritifs can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome. During this time period, alcoholic drinks would be consumed before meals for medicinal purposes. Common pre-meal drinks included herbal-infused wines, believed to improve digestion and overall health.
Some centuries later in 18th century France, a chemist named Joseph Dubonnet infused wine with quinine to combat malaria in the French colonies. Unwittingly, he had created a fortified wine which became a popular high society drink and would become the basis of modern apéritifs as we know it today.
Around the world in apéritifs
Around the globe, apéritif traditions vary. In Italy, the drink is called aperitivo. In comparison to the French tradition which serves the drinks alone before a meal, aperitivo in Italy is often served with a substantial spread of food.
Spain, on the other hand, serves their apéritif with tapas to create a more substantial pre-meal experience. This is different from apéritif hour in the UK, where gin-based drinks like a Pimm’s cup are often served as apéritif during the warmer months.
Apéritif varieties
Almost any drink can make great apéritifs, but there are certain alcohols that work better than others. When choosing an apéritif, it’s best to go with liquor or wine that is light in both texture and flavour.
Some of the drinks considered to be a classic apéritif include champagne, dry vermouth, and sparkling wines. However, you can also serve up a light gin and tonic or Campari soda before the meal. The low alcohol content in these beverages will keep your palate refreshed without overwhelming your senses or spoiling your appetite.
Hosting an apéritif hour
Having some people over for apéritif hour can be a great bonding experience. Because of apéritif’s association with fancy occasions, this is a great way to elevate a casual gathering.
Choose your own selection of drinks from the varieties mentioned above, and feel free to provide light snacks for your guests too. It’s all up to you to set the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable meal, which you can have at home or go out for!
Once you’ve mastered the art of the apéritif, you can transform any meal into a special occasion. Whatever drink you choose as your apéritif, it’s all about creating the perfect atmosphere for your main course. Looking to host an apéritif hour or simply enjoy your own at home? Check out minuman.com to find the perfect pre-meal drink for you!
