What Is an Apéritif, Anyway?

This article is part of an Aperitivo Hour series, featuring sips and snacks for the warming weather, presented by Patrón Ahumado.

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Welcome to Apéritif 101! We’re so glad you’re here. So is our instructor, Rebekah Peppler, a writer, food stylist, and author of Apéritif. She’s here to answer all our apéritif questions, like: Um, what’s an apéritif? And which apéritifs are ideal for a home bar? And what’s the deal with shaking versus stirring cocktails? Watch the episode of Dear Test Kitchen above for the answers, and then some.

1. Suze Tonic

This bright, bitter, floral drink comes by way of Rebekah’s book. “In an easy twist on the standard G&T, subbing in assertive Suze adds an earthy, oral bitterness to the drink while also lowering the alcohol content,” she writes. “Drink two!”

2. Aperitivo Frizzante

Here’s an easy-to-remember formula: 1 part bitter Italian liqueur, like amaro. 3 parts Prosecco. Orange twist in each glass, plus ice if you want it (I want it).

3. Cynar Spritz

Aperol spritzes may be all the rage, but I personally prefer a Cynar spritz. While the color isn’t as pretty, Cynar’s flavor is more complex and bitter, thanks to a slew of plants and herbs, including—wait for it—artichokes.

1. Furikake Chex Mix

Think you love Chex mix? Just wait until you add a jar of furikake—a Japanese seasoning, usually made with sesame seeds, seaweed, sugar, salt, dried fish, and MSG.

2. Five Spice Oven-Roasted Nuts

Cocktails love roasted nuts. Especially these ones, which are tossed with five spice (a Chinese mixture featuring ingredients like cinnamon, star anise, cloves, and fennel) and some chili powder for good measure.

3. Warm Olives in Anchovy Oil

These aren't your average olives—anchovies are finely chopped, then simmered with garlic and rosemary, before the olives are tossed into the pan and warmed through for an umami-packed flavor upgrade. Perfect for pairing with a refreshing sip.

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This post contains products that are independently selected by our editors, and Food52 may earn an affiliate commission. What’s your favorite apéritif? Tell us in the comments.