Our wine and spirits editor thinks every summer needs an aperitif to kick-start festivities. His bottles of choice get the party started.
The ruby-red Italian drink, whose recipe is closely guarded, remains a mystery since its creator, Gaspare Campari, began bottling it in 1860. We love the sleek new bottle. Mix a Negroni with Campari, ice, gin and an orange slice. Perfection.
Made from bergamot oranges, Italicus presents floral aromas with herbal flavors. It’s vegan certified and low ABV. Mix Italicus with Champagne over ice and garnish with three green olives for a touch of saltiness.
The Italian aperitivo with a vivid orange hue is as perfect as a Lake Como evening. The Barbieri brothers created Aperol’s secret recipe in 1919. Mix a spritz with Aperol, prosecco, soda water and an orange slice.
Crafted in a Turin distillery with a blend of 22 botanicals, Savoia offers a bold flavor profile and a balance between red bitters and sweet vermouths for classic Italian cocktails. Mix Savoia with mezcal and three flakes of bitter cocoa for a tantalizing Negroni.
The secret recipe for Lillet, known for its delicate blend of herbs, roots and fruits (Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc), hides in a town south of Bordeaux. Fill a wine glass with ice, mix Lillet and club soda in equal parts, and serve with an orange slice.
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