Aperitifs are alcoholic drinks typically served before a meal to stimulate the appetite and prepare the palate for food. The tradition of serving aperitifs dates back to 19th-century Europe and is still widely practised today as a way to start a meal on a celebratory note. Aperitifs are typically light and low in alcohol, with a refreshing and crisp taste.

Popular aperitifs include Vermouth, Campari, Sherry, and sparkling wines. Vermouth is a fortified wine flavoured with herbs and spices and is often used as a base for cocktails such as the Martini. Campari is a bitter, red aperitif made from a secret blend of botanicals and is usually served with soda or orange juice. Sherry, a fortified wine made in southern Spain, comes in various styles, including dry, medium-sweet, and sweet, and is a popular aperitif. Sparkling wines, such as Champagne and Prosecco, are popular aperitifs and often used to toast special occasions.

In addition to traditional aperitifs, a variety of modern, artisanal aperitifs have become increasingly popular in recent years. These aperitifs are made with high-quality ingredients and often feature unique, bold flavours. Examples include Aperol, a bright orange aperitif made with bitter orange, rhubarb, and gentian root, and Lillet, a blend of wine and citrus liqueurs flavoured with botanicals such as quinine and orange blossom.

When serving aperitifs, it is vital to consider the occasion and the cuisine served with the drink. Aperitifs are meant to be light and refreshing and are typically served in smaller portions to allow for a slow and relaxed start to the meal. They can be served on their own or as part of a cocktail and are often accompanied by light snacks such as olives, nuts, or cheese.

In conclusion, aperitifs are a time-honoured tradition that offers a refreshing and light start to a meal. Whether you prefer traditional options like Vermouth and Sherry, or modern, artisanal aperitifs, there is a wide range of options to suit every taste and occasion. The next time you sit down to a meal, consider starting with an aperitif to add sophistication and elegance to your dining experience.

Aperitifs have a long and rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. These flavoured alcoholic beverages were originally created as a way to stimulate the appetite before a meal, and were often infused with herbs, spices, and fruits to create unique and complex flavours. Over time, aperitifs became popular in European countries such as France and Italy, where they were enjoyed as a pre-dinner drink to whet the appetite and prepare the palate for the meal to come.



In the 19th century, aperitifs gained popularity in Australia as well, with a growing interest in European culinary traditions. Today, aperitifs come in a wide variety of flavours and styles, from bitter and herbal to sweet and fruity, and are enjoyed by people all over the world as a sophisticated and refreshing way to start a meal. Whether sipped on their own or used as a base for cocktails, aperitifs continue to be a beloved part of the drinking culture.