A Toast to the Mediterranean Summer: A Sip of Aperitivo Culture

Get ready to wave hello to a taste of the Mediterranean as we dive headfirst into our "Dolce Vita" inspired summer.

This upcoming theme, presented through blogs, banners and a vast array of content on our Insta, comes as part of our year-long voyage around the globe, savouring and exploring the world's finest spirits and cocktails. 

Expect to be transported to the azure waves and balmy sunsets via a bevy of spirits and cocktails that encapsulate the quintessential Mediterranean spirit.

Why the Dolce Vita?

Besides the undeniable allure of a Mediterranean summer, we're eager to showcase the region's remarkable range and depth of the region's spirits. Its rich heritage, tradition, and innovation are captured in the bottles we're featuring, telling a fascinating story of people and place with every sip.

With the "Dolce Vita" theme, we're hope to bring you closer to the Mediterranean lifestyle - one that cherishes quality ingredients, simple yet profound flavours, and most importantly, the joy of sharing good times with loved ones. 

It also takes us to the heartlands of the Aperitivo. And in all the world's drinking habits, there is no better than the aperitivo. 

Not just the for the iconic drinks served during the golden hour, but the culture that surrounds it and what it conjures. The beauty of the aperitivo culture lies not in high-octane revelry, but in its leisurely and convivial pace. It embodies the Med, and the relaxed tempo of summer. 

This blissful pre-dinner tradition stretches from Italy's summer piazzas to the sun-kissed terraces of the French Riviera and the vibrant mosaic of Spanish tapas bars. It's a timeless cocktail of friends, laughter, sun-bathed locales and of course the star attraction — vermouths, bitters, and an array of luscious liqueurs.

One of the keystones of the aperitivo culture is a love for vermouth and bitters. The two drinks might be distant cousins, but they are close companions in the aperitivo ritual.

Vermouth, the dapper, wine-based relative with its complex botanicals and spices, is usually sipped straight, on the rocks, or as the primary ingredient in classic cocktails like the Negroni or Americano. Its dashing counterpart, bitters, with their punch of herbs and roots, add complexity and intrigue to your aperitivo hour.

Brands like Martini & Rossi, Carpano and Cinzano have left indelible marks on vermouth's storied history, while the biting charm of Campari and Aperol bitters has played its part in carving out this delicious culture. These titans have long since transcended their Italian roots, sipped and savoured from Santorini to Seville, and everywhere in between.

It's not just the Italian brands either. The French powerhouses of Pernod, Lillet, Noilly Prat and now the new generation of Spanish brands like El Bandarra putting Spain back in the map – L’Apero doesn’t have a border. 

The drinks share a familiarity even if the accent to each is unique. The geography that informs them may be different - but the vibe remains.

The reason for it’s enduring appeal is simple – the aperitivo is not just about what's in your glass; it's also about what's on your plate and who you are with. From tapas like patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo in Spain to a tempting charcuterie board in France, these snacks perfectly complement the drinks, elevating the experience to a gastronomic feast.

What’s coming up?

Throughout the next two months, we'll be rolling out a series of fascinating blogs, each diving deep into the heart of a classic Mediterranean cocktail culture and featuring spirits that have long been a cornerstone of the region's vibrant drinking scene.

Kick-starting our spirited journey will be the elegant Americano and its close cousin, the Milano Torino. These cocktails, dating back to the 1860s, perfectly encapsulate the spirit of Italian café culture. Imagine a tranquil afternoon in Milan, watching the world go by with an Americano in hand - that's what we'll bring to your reading (and drinking) table!

Next up, the iconic Negroni – a cocktail as bold as it is beautiful. With its alluring mix of gin, vermouth, and bitters, it's a must-try for all spirit aficionados. We’ll be talking about how to go rogue with some modern twists that are sure to pique your curiosity.

As the Tour de France rolls around stage after stage, we will shine a light on the Bicicletta cocktail. Named after the preferred transport of the Italian elderlies returning home after their afternoon sip, this unique cocktail is a perfect blend of relaxation and revitalisation - just like a gentle bicycle ride along the coast.

We’ll also be taking on the big icons too – in particular the effervescent charm of the Aperol Spritz. This bright orange aperitivo is the embodiment of summer and we're on hand to help you perfect it - we'll unravel the history, secrets and variations of this beloved drink.

And it's not just cocktails. We're excited to introduce you to some amazing Mediterranean spirits that will enhance your home bar like never before. Whether it's the citrusy zing of Limoncello, the herbal complexity of Amaro, the unusual opportunities unlocked through serving Greek Brandy, as well as other expert recommendations and detailed tasting notes that will guide you on a memorable voyage of discovery.

Time to plan ahead! Why not stock up and invite friends over for an Apéro evening of your own? Swap stories, enjoy the sunshine and let the spirits flow. After all, the Mediterranean lifestyle is all about celebrating life, food, and drink with the ones we love.

Our 'Dolce Vita' theme is more than just a line-up of exceptional spirits and cocktails - it's a tribute to a lifestyle that cherishes every moment, every flavour, and every sip. 

It's an invitation to slow down, enjoy the little things, and live life the Mediterranean way - even if just in spirit!