APERITIF WINES
5 Tips and Which Ones to Choose - The Definitive Guide
Ready to discover the perfect wines for an aperitif? To enjoy carefree and relaxing moments with friends, an aperitif is a must. And wine is a key element to make the moment truly special. Which one to choose?
Here is a selection of very special aperitif wines and all the advice on which wine to choose.
And if you really want to amaze your guests, you will also discover the advantage of receiving a box of bottles designed specifically for you.
What are we talking about:
- 5+1 tips for making an aperitif at home
- 10 perfect aperitif wines
- Food and wine pairings for the aperitif
- A unique selection for your aperitifs
- FAQ
+4.4 million
Wine consumers between meals (+35% in the last 15 years) in Italy
22 million people
They declare that they have an alcoholic aperitif (ISTAT 2022 data)
Lombardy in the lead
Where 16.7% of aperitif lovers in the entire country are located
5+1 tips for choosing the right aperitif wine
1 - Consider the time and the occasion
Do you want to host an aperitif at home with lots of friends and a pleasant and fun atmosphere?
Choosing the wine, or rather the right wines , is essential to make everyone happy and find ideal combinations for your preparations, which really make the difference.
First of all, it is important to consider the time and occasion when you want to hold the aperitif.
Do you want to create an informal moment? Or an elegant aperitif in a formal context?
Deciding this will determine your wine choice.
The art of organizing the perfect aperitif lies in the careful choice of wines based on the occasion: the bottles will then become those silent allies that will make your evening shine without requiring too many hours of preparation.
To begin with, it is essential to carefully consider the time and occasion in which you wish to enjoy this ritual with friends.
Do you want to create an informal moment, where lightheartedness and joy reign? Or are you aiming for a more sophisticated and formal experience, perhaps for a special event?
The answer to these questions will be the lighthouse that guides your wine selection.
If the aperitif is an INFORMAL moment, ideal for having fun with friends, you can opt for a fresh white, a fruity rosé or a light sparkling wine (a Charmat or Ancestral Method, for example). These wines blend perfectly with the carefree atmosphere of the occasion, preparing the palate for moments of relaxation.
On the other hand, if the aperitif is a more FORMAL occasion, perhaps in conjunction with a special event or before a sophisticated dinner, the choice should be moved towards a more complex sparkling wine (a Classic Method, for example), a white structured or even a full-bodied red if you know your guests like it and if the season allows it. In these situations, more structured wines will better integrate with the elegance and refinement desired for the event, ensuring an unforgettable sensory experience for all guests.
The versatility of the wines will allow you to adapt to the different nuances you want to give to your aperitif, ensuring that each glass is a tribute to good taste.
Therefore: a white, a rosé or a light sparkling wine are ideal for an informal aperitif, while a more structured and full-bodied sparkling wine, a white or even a red can be perfect for a more formal evening.
2 - Think about the food you will serve or eat
The food that will be served or shared during the aperitif is a key element in the choice of wine.
You can decide to organize the aperitif starting from food or wine but in any case the combination between the two is an aspect capable of enhancing your aperitif or not.
If you start with food:
If you are preparing a delicate fish-based aperitif, then a crisp white wine might be the best choice. In the case of fish in more important preparations, you can select a more structured and savory white, perhaps which has undergone some refinement in the cellar.
If, however, you opt for cold cuts and cheeses, a rosé wine or a not too structured red can pair perfectly with more intense flavours.
The bubbles are perfect with fried foods but pair beautifully with practically all dishes: choose them if you don't want to make mistakes.
3 - Take into account the season
The season in which you have the aperitif, and therefore the temperature, make a big difference in the choice of wine for your aperitif.
In basic spring and summer you can prefer wines with good acidity and to be consumed fresh. With high temperatures the green light is therefore given to bubbles, white or rosé.
During autumn and winter , when temperatures drop, the bubbles can be more complex and you can opt for more important whites, rosés or even robust and full-bodied red wines which pair well with winter dishes, which tend to be more structured and intense in their flavours.
4 - Start from the wines you like to choose the right aperitif wine
If you already have a preference for a particular type of wine, this is an excellent starting point for choosing aperitif wine.
For example, if you are a white wine lover and love Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, you could offer your friends other French white wines, or wines with these grape varieties grown around the world.
If you love aromatic wines you have many possibilities, in Italy and beyond.
For example, Alsace , France, is famous for Gewürztraminer, known for its floral and spicy aromas. In Germany , Riesling offers a wide range of aromas, from green fruit notes to honey tones. Muscat, with its characteristic floral and fruity scent, grows in Mediterranean areas. In Argentina , Torrontés is an icon, with its floral and citrus fragrances. Viognier, originally from the Rhone Valley in France , offers aromas of flowers, peaches and apricots. Finally, Moscato, with its delicious fruit and honey flavors, finds its highest expression in Italy, particularly in the Piedmont region.
If, however, you are a red wine enthusiast, you can decide to explore wines from lesser-known territories, such as Australia or the Rioja region in Spain.
Your favorite wines can be a starting point but also allow you to explore, trying and making your guests try new and particular sensory experiences.
Your aperitif will be truly memorable.
5 - Ask an expert for advice so you don't make mistakes
If you have doubts or would like expert advice in choosing an aperitif wine, so as not to make mistakes, do not hesitate to seek the advice of a professional sommelier.
Wine experts have extensive knowledge of different wine varieties, regions and the organoleptic characteristics of wines and pairings. And then they know the wineries very well, including the most artisanal and little-known ones.
A sommelier will be able to direct you towards the choices that best suit your personal taste and the needs of your aperitif.
If you want a personalized approach, you can take advantage of Sommelier Wine Box , our digital sommelier service.
With our team of sommeliers, we will help you select the perfect aperitif wines, taking into account your specific tastes, the food you intend to serve and the occasion. It is a unique way to discover new wines, including aperitif ones, and make your moments unforgettable.
EXTRA TIP: be on the safe side and choose a box of excellent wines for the aperitif
If you want to surprise your guests with a unique selection of aperitif wines, opt for a box curated by Sommelier Wine Box.
Here you will find exclusive niche wines, selected by expert sommeliers, which will make your aperitif unforgettable.
Simply choose the personalized solution to receive 3 or 6 bottles of wines from niche wineries from all over the world directly to your home, selected for you by great sommeliers, based on your tastes and needs, which you can write in the appropriate section. You can agree on the selection with our sommeliers or receive it as a surprise.
5 white wines and aperitif bubbles with which to amaze your guests
5 red and rosé aperitif wines with which to amaze your guests
Pairings between food and wine for the aperitif: some examples and advice
🥂 What to pair with a white wine for an aperitif
White wine for the aperitif? There are a thousand possibilities.
For a crisp white wine, consider light, fresh dishes like shrimp in pink sauce or a caprese salad, in which the tomato and basil blend harmoniously with the wine.
Tomato and basil bruschetta is another excellent choice, while fresh cheeses such as mozzarella are excellent companions for the freshness of white wine.
Fish-based dishes, seafood finger food and light salads are also perfect.
The possibilities are endless, and you can further customize your choices based on your tastes and those of your guests.
If you need specific advice on choosing white wine for your aperitif, our Sommelier Wine Box service is at your disposal, offering you a selection of carefully chosen wines to guarantee a unique tasting experience.
🍷 Red aperitif wines: which foods to pair with
Who said that you should only drink white wine with an aperitif?
There are red wines suitable for an aperitif and there is a whole world of flavors and aromas to explore.
Red wines offer a wide range of aromas and tastes that go perfectly with various types of dishes, but always with character, capable of balancing the intense flavors of the wine.
If you have opted for a light and fruity red wine, such as a Pinot Noir, then consider pairing it with some high-quality raw ham or various cured meats. The balance between the lightness of the wine and the intense flavors of the cured meats will create an exceptional tasting experience.
If, on the other hand, you have chosen a more structured and full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, you could pair it with dishes such as crostini with pâté or marinated olives. The complexity and depth of red wine will complement the intense flavors of these foods perfectly.
The art of pairing food and wine lies in finding a balance between the flavors and characteristics of both.
To enhance red wines there is an absolute must: cheeses, the older the wine. The combination is unforgettable and never goes wrong.
🥂 Rosé wines for the aperitif and gastronomic pairings
Rosé wines are a very intelligent and versatile choice for the aperitif, with their freshness and lightness, and because they can be a fair compromise that satisfies lovers of whites and also reds.
When it comes to pairing them with food, there are many delicious options to consider.
Here are some perfect food pairings for aperitif rosé wines:
1. Beef carpaccio: The delicacy of rosé marries perfectly with the softness and delicacy of beef carpaccio. The fruity notes of the wine will complete the dish, creating a surprising balance.
2. Smoked salmon: The smoky flavor of salmon pairs well with the freshness of rosé wine. This combination is a classic choice for elegant aperitifs.
3. Seafood Salad: The light acidity and fruity notes of rosé wine harmonize well with the seafood salad. It's a light and refreshing option.
4. Gourmet pizzas: If you prefer a more informal aperitif, gourmet pizzas with only mozzarella or with other ingredients such as raw ham, rocket and cheese pair perfectly with a rosé wine. The fruity notes of the wine match the intense flavors of the pizzas.
The aperitif is a moment of relaxation, so don't hesitate to experiment with different combinations. And rosé wines are a great solution for versatility at the table.
🥂 Bubbles for the aperitif and gastronomic pairings
The bubbles, with their festive effervescence, are an excellent choice for an aperitif. Sparkling wines pair with a variety of dishes, adding a touch of elegance to every bite.
Here are some food pairing ideas for aperitif bubbles:
1. Light starters: sparkling wines go well with starters such as carpaccio, fish tartare or light salads. The effervescence cleanses the palate between bites, preparing for the next flavor.
2. Seafood: If you're serving fresh seafood, bubbles are an excellent choice, preferably in the Classic Method version. Their fresh, fruity character complements the delicate flavors of seafood.
3. Cheeses and appetizers: Bubbles are perfect for cheeses, especially creamy ones, like brie or camembert. Furthermore, they pair well with appetizers such as marinated olives or crostini with pâté.
If the aperitif is part of a party, bubbles are a must. They can be paired with practically any dish, from refined aperitifs to sushi or tempura.
Remember that bubbles can vary greatly in style, from French Champagne to Italian Prosecco to Spanish Cava. Choose the ones that best suit your menu and your guests' preferences.
If you want a selection of perfect bubbles for your aperitifs, try Sommelier Wine Box .
Order a box with unique and exclusive aperitif wines
Do you want to make the aperitif experience even more special?
If you want to make a good impression, consider ordering a box of unique and exclusive aperitif wines from Sommelier Wine Box .
Our boxes contain a selection of wines carefully chosen by our expert sommeliers from artisanal and curated wineries from all over the world, especially Italian and French.
You will be able to customize your choice based on your tastes and preferences by choosing to agree on the composition of your box with our experts.
Each bottle is a discovery, enjoy it and let your guests enjoy it thanks to the advice of the best experts around: you will have years of experience at your service. For an impeccable aperitif.
FAQ on Aperitif Wines
When to choose a red wine for an aperitif?
Red wine can be a perfect choice for a winter aperitif, when you want something warm and enveloping. It's ideal if you're serving heartier dishes like cured meats and mature cheeses.
The acidity and tannins of red wines effectively contrast the intense flavors, creating an excellent gustatory balance.
When to choose a white wine for an aperitif?
White wines are the ideal choice for summer aperitifs when you serve light dishes. They are characterized by freshness and acidity, which make them perfect for preparing the palate before a meal. Their versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of light dishes.
In the case of whites made with long refinements you can also combine more structured foods.
When to choose bubbles for an aperitif?
Bubbles are a perfect choice for special aperitifs and go well with light dishes and starters, although sparkling wines are a perfect solution for many foods.
They are able to add a touch of elegance and festiveness to the occasion.
The choice will fall on a Brut, Extra Brut or Dry version depending on the specific dishes and tastes.
When to choose a rosé wine for an aperitif?
Rosé wine is perfect for aperitifs and pairs well with fresh dishes such as carpaccio, salads and light snacks.
Its versatility and refreshing character make it an ideal choice for a summer aperitif in the company of friends.
Rosé wine is an excellent solution even if you are undecided between red and white, because it brings together lovers of both types.
Where to buy wine for an aperitif?
If you already know what to buy you can find excellent aperitif wines in specialized wine shops or online shops.
If you want to be guided in purchasing and discover unique labels selected based on the needs of your aperitif, let Sommelier Wine Box make a selection.
What wine do you drink with truffles?
The truffle is the very symbol of refinement and complexity. To accompany it, equally refined, complex and fragrant wines are needed.
Opt for complex white wines like a structured Chardonnay or an elegant red wine like a Barolo, for a territorial pairing of great charm.
These wines are able to complement the flavors of the truffle without overwhelming them.
What type of Prosecco for an aperitif?
A lot depends on your tastes because if there is a type that you love more than others, without a doubt opt for that.
For an aperitif based on foods with a slightly sweet tendency, you can choose a Prosecco Extra Dry (which has a residual sugar). If you prefer savory dishes, choose a Brut (probably the solution that makes the most people happy) or even an Extra Brut , depending on the dryness you prefer. Both options pair well with light, savory appetizers and starters.
What white wine should you have for an aperitif?
It all depends on the food you prepare and your tastes. Based on the latter:
- For lovers of drinkable whites: If you prefer light and easy-drinking white wines, opt for a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio. These wines are fresh, with citrus notes and are ideal for an aperitif.
- For those who love structured whites: If you want something more structured and complex, try for example a Chardonnay aged in barrique, which offers a wealth of flavors of butter, vanilla and ripe fruit or a white wine in the Reserve version such as Vernaccia of San Gimignano.
- For flavor enthusiasts: If you love saline and marine flavors, Vermentino or Albariño could be your ideal choices. These whites offer a pleasant flavor and pair well with seafood and Mediterranean dishes.
- For those looking for minerality: If you're looking for white wines with a distinctive note of minerality, try a Mosel Riesling or a Gavi. These wines offer a mineral character that pairs well with light dishes such as salads.
- For lovers of aromatic wines: If you prefer whites with a distinctive aromatic profile, think for example Gewürztraminer or Viognier. These wines offer floral and spicy notes that add a touch of specialness to your aperitif.
What red wine should you take for an aperitif?
The choice depends on the food you prepare and your tastes. Considering your preferences:
- For lovers of light reds: If you love light and fresh red wines, think of Pinot Noir or Gamay, or to stay in Italy the Schiava Trentina.
- For those who love fruity reds: If you are looking for red wines with notes of red and black fruit, opt for Merlot or Grenache. These wines are soft and fruity, very pleasant to drink and ideal for aperitifs.
- For fans of structured reds: If you want something more structured and full-bodied, choose a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah, a Chianti Classico or in general wines with long aging. These wines offer complexity with notes of ripe fruit, spice and robust tannins.
- For those looking for more tannic reds: If you like reds with tannic notes and particularly full-bodied, try a Nebbiolo, a Tempranillo or if you want to dare a Tannat. These wines offer distinctive flavor profiles that pair well with dishes such as very savory cured meats and aged cheeses.
- For lovers of aromatic reds: If you prefer reds with intense aromatic and floral notes, you can opt for Malbec or Nero d'Avola. These are complex reds, designed for those who love the genre.
What to pair with white wine?
It depends on your tastes and the dishes you are serving. Here are some possibilities:
- With fish-based dishes: A fresh Sauvignon Blanc can be perfect with fish-based aperitifs.
- For light salads: If you're serving fresh salads with lemon or citrus dressing, a light Chardonnay pairs beautifully.
- With cheeses: A Vermentino goes well with cheeses, which are a must for aperitifs.
- Light starters: For starters with raw ham and melon or with meat carpaccio, try a Pinot Grigio.
- With Asian cuisine: If for your aperitif you opt for Asian cuisine, rich in spices and aromas, an aromatic Riesling is perfect, especially if you prepare slightly spicy dishes.
- For chicken dishes: A more structured Chardonnay can be a great choice with chicken-based entrees.
- With vegetarian dishes: If you opt for a vegetarian aperitif, a white like the Greco di Tufo can be an excellent choice characterized by the complexity of the wine.
What to pair with red wine?
The combination also depends on the type of red you prefer, but here are some useful indications:
- With light red wines: If you love light red wines like Pinot Noir or Gamay, pair them with raw ham, cured meat appetizers, crostini with pâté or even lightly seasoned pizzas.
- For more structured red wines: If you prefer structured red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Nebbiolo, then think about robust dishes such as grilled steaks, roast meats, or mature cheeses.
- With rosé wines: For rosé wines, ideal for informal aperitifs, pair dishes such as carpaccio, fresh salads or gourmet pizzas.
What to pair with rosé wine?
The pairing depends first of all on your tastes, however here are some pairing indications:
- With meat carpaccio: The rosé goes well with beef or tuna carpaccio, enhancing the fresh flavours, which make the aperitif of great class.
- For seafood salads: A perfect choice with a rosé is seafood salad or smoked salmon, that is, salads rich in flavor and with an intense flavour; this is required by rosé wine which is ideally placed halfway between white and red.
- With gourmet pizzas: For a more informal touch, serve your rosé wine with gourmet pizzas or Mediterranean appetizers.
What to pair with bubbles for an aperitif?
Bubbles are a great classic: if you like them, they can really transform the aperitif into a classy, fun and delicious moment.
Here are some pairing suggestions:
- With light appetizers: The bubbles are ideal with light but tasty appetizers such as raw ham, melon, or marinated olives.
- For seafood: If your aperitif includes seafood or oysters, the bubbles will give a refined note to the combination.
- Refined dishes: For festive and classy occasions, combine a Classic Method with equally elegant dishes such as lobsters, caviar or tartare.
- Fried: A great classic pairing is between sparkling wine and fried foods, fish, meat or vegetables. The light greasiness of the food is divinely cleansed by the bubbles and creates unique sensations.
What are red aperitif wines?
For an aperitif with red wines, you can choose between different options based on your tastes and the type of occasion. Light red wines, such as Pinot Noir, are excellent for informal and carefree moments with friends and in fact the best for an aperitif, which is a prelude to a long dinner, with other combinations.
These wines offer a light, fruity character that pairs well with dishes such as raw ham, fresh cheeses, and light pizzas.
If you are organizing a more important aperitif or before an elegant dinner, and if you want to offer red wines straight away you can opt for more full-bodied wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Nebbiolo. These wines have complex notes and robust tannins, perfect for dishes with structured, tasty and characterful foods. Other classic red wines to consider include Gamay, Merlot and Syrah.
The ideal for the aperitif is however to opt for a progression from lighter wines to more complex and structured ones.
What are white aperitif wines?
White aperitif wines allow you a wide range of choices, allowing you to customize the experience to suit your tastes. If you love light, aromatic white wines, Sauvignon Blanc or Vermentino are great. These wines have fruity and floral notes that go well with fish dishes, light salads and fresh cheeses.
For a selection of more structured white wines, consider Chardonnay or Viognier. These wines offer greater complexity and structure that makes them perfect for dishes such as meat carpaccio or chicken dishes. The versatility of white wines allows you to pair them with a truly wide variety of flavors.
Other white wines ideal for an aperitif include Riesling, Moscato, and Gewürztraminer, each with its own very intense aroma profile, suitable for equally fragrant dishes.
Choose the type of white wine that best suits the atmosphere of the aperitif and your or your guests' personal tastes to create a memorable food and wine experience.