The dinner party is making a comeback – and we couldn’t be more excited to bring back this tradition – and the art of the apéritif!

What is an apéritif?  To us, it’s truly an art form – and an inspiring way to elevate the everyday! A French tradition, an apéritif is an alcoholic drink before a meal to stimulate the appetite.

The word aperitif (Or as the Italians call it, apertivo!) comes from a Latin root, meaning “to open,” which is exactly the purpose of the drink: to prepare the stomach for the meal and to open up the palate for tastes to be enjoyed during dinner. When you greet your dinner guests with an aperitif, you’re doing much more than simply welcoming them to your home with a cocktail, you’re getting them ready to savor every morsel you serve.

An aperitif is similar to amuse-bouche in terms of food. What seems like a generous offering, in fact, serves the additional (mildly selfish) purpose of making the food you’ve prepared even more appealing! Since they’re meant to open up the palate rather than overwhelm it, aperitifs are light and crisp, and not super high on the alcohol content.

They are commonly dry libations, which is why a favorite choice for an apéritif is sparkling wine and sparkling wine cocktails!   Usually served with appetizers or “amuse-bouche, such as crackers, cheese, bread,  pâté, or olives.”

Sparkling Wine Aperitifs: Elevate Your Pre-Dinner Experience

Sparkling wine aperitifs have long been cherished as the perfect prelude to a delightful meal, offering a tantalizing blend of effervescence, flavor, and sophistication. Whether you’re hosting a soirée or simply unwinding after a long day, these bubbly concoctions add a touch of elegance to any occasion. In this article, we’ll explore the allure of sparkling wine aperitifs, their versatility, and how to craft the perfect pre-dinner libation.

The Appeal of Sparkling Wine Aperitifs:

Aperitifs have evolved into a beloved ritual in cultures around the world. Sparkling wine aperitifs, in particular, hold a special place due to their refreshing nature and celebratory aura. The crisp bubbles dance on the palate, awakening the senses and preparing them for the culinary journey ahead.

Versatility in Flavor Profiles:

One of the most captivating aspects of sparkling wine aperitifs is their versatility in flavor profiles. From dry and zesty Brut varieties to semi-sweet and fruity options, there’s a sparkling wine to suit every taste preference. Whether you prefer the citrusy notes of a Prosecco, the toasty richness of a Champagne, the floral aromas of a Moscato d’Asti,  the balanced Blanc de Blancs Brut, or the slightly sweeter, pinker, trendy Brut Rosé, the world of sparkling wine offers endless possibilities for crafting unique and flavorful aperitifs.

Crafting the Perfect Sparkling Wine Aperitif:

Creating a memorable sparkling wine aperitif is an art form that requires a delicate balance of ingredients and flavors. Here are some tips for crafting the perfect pre-dinner libation:

• Selecting the Right Sparkling Wine: Choose a sparkling wine that complements your desired flavor profile. No need to splurge on champagne proper, choose a more affordable sparkling wine. For a crisp and dry aperitif, opt for a Brut or a dry Prosecco. For a sweeter option, consider a demi-sec sparkling wine or a Moscato. More on the difference between champagne and sparkling wine here.
• Adding Enhancements: Elevate your aperitif by incorporating complementary ingredients such as fresh fruits, herbs, or liqueurs. Citrus slices, berries, and herbs like mint or basil add a burst of freshness, while a splash of elderflower liqueur or Aperol lends depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
• Experimenting with Bubbles: Get creative with your sparkling wine selection to add depth and dimension to your aperitif. Try using sparkling rosé for a blush-hued libation or experiment with sparkling red wines for a bold and unexpected twist.
• Serving with Style: Presentation is key when it comes to sparkling wine aperitifs. Serve your creations in elegant stemware or coupes to showcase the effervescence and visual appeal of the drink. Garnish with a complementary fruit or herb for a finishing touch that delights the senses. More cocktail garnish ideas here!

Two Classic Aperitifs | Sparkling Cocktails To Serve At A Dinner Party

The Kir Royale & The Aperol Spritz

“Kir and Kir Royale are two classic, classy cocktails. Cassis is a black currant liqueur, which adds a combination of dark and bright fruits notes that act as an ideal foil to the wine. I prefer the Kir Royale. Bubbles are fun, and they give the heavier notes in the cassis some levity.” —Tom Macy

Want something innovative? We’ve curated some spritzer cocktail recipes here.

Common at restaurants and dinner parties, It’s not necessarily about the drink itself. It’s about the experience of dining, gathering, connecting.. Taking time to enjoy the meal and the company.

In summary, sparkling wine aperitifs offer a delightful way to elevate your pre-dinner experience and set the stage for a memorable meal. With their versatile flavor profiles and endless possibilities for customization, these effervescent libations are sure to impress even the most discerning palate. So why wait? Embrace the art of aperitif crafting and raise a glass to the joy of sparkling wine. Cheers!

One could actually say the apéritif is the perfect illustration of the drive behind our wines.

Le Grand Courtâge or “The Great Courtship”  is all about bringing people to share food, wine and laughter. We aim to be the best 15 minutes of someone’s day; inspiring them to celebrate life and cultivate joy in simple ways… because it’s the everyday moments in life that really matter.

It’s about elevating the everyday and adopting a joyful state of mind in everything you do. The mission was to create something which is approachable, affordable, and versatile. So that no matter the occasion, big or small, you can enjoy a 90+ point quality wine from an elegant bottle on any budget.

From a simple weeknight apéritif at home, or a celebratory toast at The Four Seasons, relish in the French spirit of  joie de vivre  in every sip!