Aperitif

An aperitif (French: [apeʁitif]) is an alcoholic beverage, typically served before a meal. Its purpose is to stimulate the appetite and to prepare the palate for the meal to come. Aperitifs are usually dry rather than sweet, with a bitter or herbal profile to encourage salivation and enhance the overall dining experience. They can range from fortified wines and vermouths to specific cocktails, often consumed alongside light snacks like olives, nuts, or cheese. The tradition emphasizes social connection and a relaxed beginning to a meal.

Aperitif meaning with examples

• Before our Italian feast, we enjoyed a crisp glass of Aperol spritz, the bright orange hue and refreshing taste perfectly complementing the warm summer evening. The gentle bitterness of the Aperol primed our palates, making us eager for the flavors of the pasta and seafood dishes to come. This pre-dinner ritual enhanced our dining experience.
• At the elegant dinner party, the host offered guests a selection of classic dry martinis as an aperitif. The strong gin and dry vermouth provided a sharp contrast to the richer foods that followed. It was a refined start to the evening, setting a sophisticated tone for the conversation and the gourmet meal ahead.
• The small bistro served a regional wine as their aperitif. The dry white wine paired perfectly with the bread and olives, helping awaken the senses before our main courses arrived. The light, refreshing beverage created a pleasant atmosphere, inviting us to relax and prepare for the shared meal.
• Before the Thanksgiving meal, the family gathered around the fireplace, sharing stories and sipping chilled glasses of dry sherry as their aperitif. The savory wine sparked interesting conversations before the massive feast. The family's ritual added a sense of occasion to the beginning of the meal.