Aperitifs

Aperitif is a type of alcoholic beverage served before a meal to stimulate an appetite. The word aperitif is from the French verb "aperire", which means "to open" or "to prepare." Aperitifs are typically dry wines mixed with bitters, herbal liqueurs and sometimes sugar syrup. This blog article will cover the history and types of aperitifs as well as what it best paired with.

History of Aperitifs

Aperitifs have been around for centuries, and their popularity has only grown in recent years. But what exactly is an aperitif, and where did it come from?

An aperitif is an alcoholic beverage typically served before a meal. The word “aperitif” comes from the Latin word “aperire”, which means “to open”. This refers to the fact that aperitifs are meant to stimulate the appetite.

Aperitifs originated in Italy, and were originally made with just bitters and vermouth. Bitters are a type of herbal liqueur that contains botanical ingredients like bark, roots, and spices. Vermouth is a fortified wine that is flavoured with herbs and spices.

The first recorded recipe for an aperitif was published in 1786 by Antonio Benedetto Carpano, who is credited with inventing modern vermouth. His recipe was for a drink made with white vermouth, bitters, and a dash of orange peel.

Aperitifs became popular in France in the 19th century, and were often served before dinner as an appetiser.

Different Types of Aperitifs

Aperitifs are a great way to start a meal or get together. They are light and refreshing, and can be enjoyed with or without alcohol. There are many different types of aperitifs, so there is sure to be one that you will enjoy.

Sparkling wine is a popular choice for an aperitif. It is light and refreshing, and goes well with many different types of food. Champagne is a good option for a more formal occasion.

If you are looking for something non-alcoholic, there are many options available as well. Cranberry juice, ginger ale, and even sparkling water can make a great aperitif. Be sure to experiment to find the perfect drink for you.

How to Pair an Aperitif with Food?

When it comes to aperitifs, there are many options to choose from. But how do you know what to pair with food? Here are some tips to help you make the perfect aperitif pairing:

  • Consider the flavours of the dish. You want to find an aperitif that will complement the flavours of the dish, not compete with them.
  • Think about the texture of the food. A light and refreshing aperitif is a good choice for dishes with rich or heavy sauces.
  • Choose an aperitif that is lower in alcohol content if you are serving multiple courses. You don't want your guests to get too full or too drunk before the main course!
  • Consider the timing of your meal. An aperitif should be served before the meal, so you'll want to choose something that is light and refreshing.
  • Have fun and experiment! There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to pairing an aperitif with food. So go ahead and experiment until you find a combination that you love.

Aperitifs are a great way to start any meal, and there are many different types to choose from. Whether you prefer something sweet or dry, sparkling or still, there’s an aperitif out there for everyone. So next time you’re planning a dinner party, don’t forget the most important part – the aperitif!