Ever wondered what an aperitif is and why it holds such a cherished place in many cultures? Let’s explore this elegant pre-meal tradition that awakens the palate and sets the tone for the culinary experience ahead.
Apéritif is a cherished ritual, especially in French and Italian cultures, signaling the start of a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. Derived from the Latin aperire, meaning “to open,” an aperitif is designed to stimulate the appetite. Typically dry and slightly bitter, these drinks prepare your senses for the flavors to come and add a touch of sophistication to any gathering.
Whether you're hosting a dinner party, enjoying a casual get-together, or simply unwinding after a long day, an aperitif offers a refreshing and stylish way to begin.
GERALD.ph has compiled a collection of apéritifs, including popular examples such as crisp Cava, a refreshing Prosecco, dry sparkling wines, and liqueurs like pastis and limoncello for your apéritif cocktail recipes. Serve them chilled, often with light snacks, chips, or gourmet appetizers.
They are perfectly complemented by appetizing combos of light gourmet snacks & appetizers. They’re perfect for:
- Dinner parties
- Weekend brunches
- Casual gatherings
- Celebratory events
🍹 Popular Aperitif Recipes to Try
🍊 1. Aperol Spritz
A light, bubbly Italian classic.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Aperol
- 2 oz Prosecco
- Splash of club soda
- Orange slice (for garnish)
Directions: Fill a wine glass with ice. Mix the drinks and top with a splash of club soda. Gently stir and garnish with a slice of orange.
🍸 2. Negroni
Bold and bittersweet, ideal for those who enjoy complex flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Orange peel (for garnish)
Directions: In a mixing glass, shake the drinks and ice. Pour the mix into a rocks glass over ice. Top with an orange peel to garnish.
🥃 3. Boulevardier
A whiskey-based twist on the Negroni.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz bourbon
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Orange peel (for garnish)
Directions: Mix the ingredients with ice, then strain into a pre-chilled glass. Garnish with a twisted orange peel.
✈️ 4. Paper Plane
A fresh and well-balanced cocktail with a bright burst of citrus flavor.
Ingredients:
- ¾ oz bourbon
- ¾ oz Aperol
- ¾ oz Amaro Nonino
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
Directions: Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, then strain into a chilled coupe glass.
🍋 5. Lillet Blanc & Tonic
Light, floral, and incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Lillet Blanc
- 4 oz tonic water
- Lemon wheel or cucumber slice (for garnish)
Directions: Serve over ice in a highball glass and top with your preferred garnish.
What to Serve With Apéritifs
🧀 Cheese & Charcuterie
- Hard cheeses like Parmesan, aged Gouda, or Manchego
- Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert
- Cured meats like prosciutto, salami, or chorizo
- Olives and cornichons
🥖 Bread & Crackers
- Toasted baguette slices
- Breadsticks (grissini)
- Savory crackers with herbs or seeds
- Marcona almonds
- Spiced or roasted nuts
- Pumpkin or sunflower seeds
🥗 Vegetables & Dips
- Crudités (raw veggies like carrots, celery, bell peppers)
- Hummus, tapenade, or aioli
- Stuffed cherry tomatoes or mini peppers
🐟 Seafood Bites
- Anchovies or sardines on toast
- Smoked salmon with cream cheese
- Shrimp cocktail
🍴 Savory Pastries
- Mini quiches
- Cheese puffs or gougères
- Empanaditas or mini samosas
Create the perfect lead-in to your meal—apéritif drinks and pairing essentials - chips, snacks, and appetizers, we’ve got you covered! Shop your aperitif essentials online today for delivery in Metro Manila, or pickup from Makati.