Aperitif: A Spirited Guide to the Drinks, History and Culture of the Aperitif

Description

Sante! The aperitif is back. Forget the crass cocktail - the chic aperitif is the choice of the discerning drinker. From the Latin aperire ('to open'), an aperitif not only kick-starts the palate before eating but is the most delightful way to begin an evening. More and more people are falling for the charms of this light, refreshing and aromatic way of drinking, and bars dedicated to aperitifs are opening around the world. Characterised by their dryness, freshness and bitter flavours, many aperitifs are also low in alcohol, making them a perfect choice for health-conscious barflies. In Aperitif, acclaimed drinks writer Kate Hawkings romps through the history of how these drinks came into being across the great drinking nations of Europe and beyond. And after a look at the science of why these drinks work so well as appetisers, she peruses anything and everything that can be considered as an aperitif: what it is, what to look for and how best to drink it. From amaro to gin, through fino sherry to arak, Campari and Lillet, and with 50 suggested recipes or serving suggestions for each kind of booze, Aperitif encourages you to sit back, sip, and anticipate the pleasures that the evening holds.

Kate Hawkings has a monthly drinks column in Olive magazine, and has written on food, travel and interiors for publications including The Guardian, Independent, Telegraph, Sunday Times, and Elle Deco. Kate is a restaurant and wine consultant and the co-owner of Bellita restaurant in Bristol. She is current Chair of the Guild of Food Writers.

SHORTLISTED 2019 Fortnum Mason Food and Drink Awards