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Aperitif
Aperitif, taken from the Latin ‘to open’ is said to stimulate the appetite, making it the perfect start to any discerning dinner party. While no single drink is classified as an Aperitif, it often comprises a small glass of something tart and flavoursome and can be anything from a crisp Champagne to a dry Sherry or Liqueur.
Reportedly created in France at the end of the 19th century by a French chemist, the Aperitif was initially a way of drinking malaria fighting quinine. It was drunk by the Foreign Legion soldiers at the time. At this point, Aperitifs were wine-based, with added spices and botanicals which artfully disguised the sharp taste of the medicinal quinine. Although dry rather than sweet, this creation became increasingly popular with the neighbouring Italians and other Europeans, with America later adopting their version in the 1970s.
Each country and region often have their staple Aperitif, showcasing the countries distilling prowess. In Greece, it is Ouzo, in Italy often Vermouth. Often served alongside hor's d ‘oeuvres, an Aperitif is a great way to give a sense of occasion. Why not have a browse through our selection today to find out more.