Aperitif

Before the start of the banquet, it is customary to serve drinks with a small percentage of alcohol content - an aperitif, and guests are offered not only alcoholic, but also non-alcoholic drinks (cocktails, juices). The tradition of serving them is especially widespread in countries where a joint meal with family and friends is accompanied by a lot of delicious food - in France, which is considered the birthplace of the custom, Spain and Italy.

Aperitif: what is it?

An aperitif is a low-alcohol or non-alcoholic drink that is usually served to guests before a meal. They can increase appetite, improve the functioning of the salivary glands, and also promote digestion.

If dinner is served late, low alcohol helps you relax after a hard day. A light, tasty drink helps relieve stress and reduces tension. This encourages people to communicate even with unfamiliar guests. In addition, the aperitif makes waiting for the food to be served more enjoyable.

Types of aperitif

It is important to know what alcohol to serve as an aperitif to lift the spirits of your guests before eating. The choice of alcoholic drinks depends on taste preferences and the type of snack.

Dry sparkling wines, champagne, Spanish sherry (fortified wine), vermouths, and cocktails with a pronounced dry or even bitter taste are served as an aperitif. Strong alcoholic drinks are very irritating to the stomach, so they are used in combination with others.

Depending on the composition, there are three types of aperitif:

• Single. One type of drink is served pure, undiluted. For example, it could be sparkling wine. Its piquant taste stimulates the stomach, refreshes the taste buds, and air bubbles lift your spirits.
• Combined. This is a mix of several drinks: Chemer Green can be mixed with Sprite and added with lime slices.
• Mixed. Cocktails consisting mainly of alcohol. For example, you can combine gin and martini.

Whether you choose a single drink or as part of a cocktail depends on the taste of the guests.

How to drink aperitif?

As mentioned at the beginning, they drink an aperitif before serving food. Drinks are offered in small quantities to help guests relax and awaken their appetite, but alcohol should not be allowed to weigh them down.

Refreshments may be served but are not required. They are prepared if there is more than an hour before dinner or if it is preceded by a performance. As snacks they offer cold cuts, cheeses, canapés, olives, nuts, sandwiches, vegetables, and fruits. This food goes well with most alcoholic drinks, satisfies a slight hunger, but does not replace the main dishes. Aperitifs and snacks are served on small trays.

Brest distillery "Belalko" has developed an original recipe for a low-alcohol drink, on the basis of which cocktails are made. It has a bright aroma, the bouquet of which gradually reveals itself, and a unique taste. You can buy it in Minsk and other cities of Belarus.