In Italy, it caught on very quickly and remains a daily treat, especially in summer. Most commonly, aperitivi are alcoholic drinks that include classic bitter Italian aperitifs as mixers. The minute the weather turns warm, the allure of the aperitivo expands. Giuseppe Gallo , founder of beverage brands Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto and Savoia Americano, said an aperitivo serves more than one purpose.
The drink is usually accompanied by a bite of something to eat, which can be as simple as a couple of olives and a bowl of potato chips or a series of crostini or other finger foods. The goal here is to relax, catch up with friends or chat with locals about soccer scores.
Joseph agreed with her. Califano said to start by laying in a supply of gin, Aperol , Select and Campari. Gallo suggested sparkling elements like tonic, soda, prosecco or Champagne. And be sure to keep things chilly. Integrating ingredients by simply stirring should be sufficient. Another popular choice for her is The Hugo.
Mike di Tota , corporate bar manager at The Smith Restaurant, said his personal favorite aperitivo is an Americano, made with equal parts Campari or other aperitivo, vermouth and soda water. Expect to see more specialized aperitivo bars and brands emerging across the country, because when Americans embrace something, they do so enthusiastically and without compromise. This article originally appeared on HuffPost.
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