Aperitif

Definition:

An Aperitif is the pre-dinner trumpet fanfare... light, crisp, and just boozy enough to tell your taste buds, “Wake up, the main act’s about to start.” Think of it as a polite invitation for your stomach to quit scrolling Instagram and pay attention.

Why it Matters:

Aperitifs aren’t just drinks; they’re social contracts. Before the steaks hit the grill or the pasta hits the table, an aperitif sets the tone. It’s less about knocking you over and more about perking you up. Dry vermouth, Lillet, Campari, or even a simple spritz. These are the sassy warm-up acts before the dinner headliner takes the stage.

For bartenders, aperitifs are magic tools. They’re low-alcohol enough to keep customers upright, but flavorful enough to keep them curious. A Negroni? That’s a classic aperitif gone global. A Kir Royale? Aperitif with a French accent. Without them, cocktail culture would be like a party where the DJ skips straight to the last song; awkward, rushed, and missing the buildup.