Aperitivo: Discover an Italian tradition
Italy is so much more than pasta and pizza! It's also a culture of sharing, conviviality and, above all, a passion for flavors. And what better way to embody this spirit than aperitivo time?
This traditional Italian ritual is a time to relax, meet and enjoy a glass of wine, accompanied by a few simple yet refined bites.
The aperitivo stars
The Spritz, a true cocktail star, is a refreshing blend of Prosecco, Aperol and sparkling water. This beverage has become the emblem of the modern aperitivo, rivaling the legendary Negroni, famous for its perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness. This iconic cocktail, made with gin, Campari and red vermouth, appeals to lovers of more complex flavors.
To bring a unique touch to these classics, you can revisit Negroni by opting for Gin Melifera, with its delicate notes of maritime plants and the scent of immortelle. This gin adds subtle depth, enriching each sip with iodized freshness.
If you're looking for an alternative to the classic Spritz, the Spritz des Dunes is an artisanal cocktail with perfectly balanced flavors. The combination of bitter orange, sweet orange, blackcurrant and elderberry offers unique fruity notes. Thanks to its original composition, this cocktail rivals the traditional Spritz while offering an original and refined taste experience.
Italian sparkling wines: bubbles of joy
Prosecco, the emblematic sparkling wine of the Veneto region, is now a staple of Italian aperitifs. With its delicate bubbles and invigorating freshness, it's the perfect accompaniment to Italian aperitif cookies like tarallini, or Italian toast topped with local produce: creamy cheeses, Parma ham or pickled vegetables. This sparkling wine also lends itself to a multitude of cocktail variations, perfectly combining fresh fruit and local liqueurs for original, refreshing creations.
Prosecco Spumante Extra Dry “Deseo” is distinguished by its fine bubbles and exquisite freshness. Whether used in a Spritz or a Bellini, this top-quality Prosecco immediately transports you to the sunny terraces of the Mediterranean, bringing a touch of elegance to every sip.
Antipasti: the essentials for an Italian aperitif
It's hard to talk about an Italian aperitif without mentioning antipasti. These varied little morsels, often served at aperitivo time, are an explosion of flavors and textures. You'll find grilled and marinated vegetables, olives, fine cured meats, Italian cheeses, as well as small slices of toast with olive oil and preserved tomatoes. The Italian aperitif-dinner is an invitation to pick and choose, to discover, and to be surprised by the richness of Mediterranean flavors.
The spirit of aperitivo
Aperitivo is much more than just a time to eat and drink. It's a veritable social institution in Italy, an art of living that invites conviviality and sharing. Let's travel to three emblematic regions to discover the nuances of this tradition:
- Piedmont: In this north-western region, aperitivo takes on a sophisticated air. In Turin, the birthplace of vermouth, this flavored wine is enjoyed with “stuzzichini”, refined appetizers. Don't miss the famous Giovanni Rosso, Barolo Cerretta, a local fortified wine perfect for aperitifs.
- Lombardy: In Milan, aperitivo is often transformed into “apericena”, a hearty buffet that doubles as dinner. Campari, born in this region, reigns supreme, served with a selection of local cheeses and cured meats.
- Tuscany: In the Tuscan hills, aperitivo takes on a rural air. A glass of Chianti accompanied by crostini al fegato (liver paté) or local pecorino will immerse you in the relaxed atmosphere of the Italian countryside.
Whether you're a curious amateur, a food enthusiast or a wine expert, the Italian aperitif has something to offer you. So the next time you're hosting an aperitif, think Italy! With a good vermouth, some tasty antipasti and a selection of regional wines.
