Think of the aperitif as a stage setter.
According to Vinepair,there are two major factorsto keep in mind: sweetness and strength.
A too-sweet drink can feel like youre having dessert first, and alcohols sense-dulling abilities can dampen your tastebuds.
This doesnt mean that martinis are off the menu, just limit it to one.
Though not a vermouth,Lillet Blancis another fortified option that can be enjoyed without much fussing.
Amontillado-style Sherryis another tasty fortified wine you may want to get to know.
(Avoid the syrupy, aggressively purpleLindemans Framboisethough; its really more of a fruit beer than lambic.)
I would, however, urge you to consider the spritzer.
Complex, somewhat bitter liqueurs with a little carbonation snap your mouth to attention without being too boozy.
If you dont take to Camparis unique flavor right away, try adding a splash of something sweet likeSt.
Germainto balance it out.
Instead, it tastes earthy, not vegetal, and a bit bitter.
These babies feelveryspecial, and are a perfect beginning to a memorable evening.
A note of caution:These arent the most common cocktails, so read the scene.
You would be ordering an Elizabeth Taylor, but without the obscure name.
The after dinner drink can serve a variety of functions.
It was a delicious experience, but made for a very unpleasant bus ride through Florence.)
If Sauternes proves hard to find,Monbazillacis an excellent backup plan.
(Um, yes to that last suggestion.)
(There is also a milder, sweeter, yellow Chartreuse, but thats only 80 proof.)
It has legions ofdiehard fans, who claim the stuff gets to work in under a minute.
Oh, and they also havereally sweet commercials.
Finally, dont feel compelled to follow any rules.
If you want to start the evening with a Grasshopper, then order a damn Grasshopper.
Photos byFranz Conde,Sam Howzit,Adrian Scottow,Len Matthews, andJoakim Jardenberg.
