The long awaited for Aperitivo! Yey!!! At last Cypriots have embraced the oh so Italian, oh so summery and oh so delish APERETIVO!
While the sun sets at casual, smart wine bars in town or on the beach, friends relax together for a glass of something boozy accompanied by complimentary plates of antipasti, cured meats and cheeses.
It might sound a lot like a reinvention of the Happy hour but I assure it is not. Happy hour is all about enticing customers through the doors with the allure of cheap booze. The iconic Aperitivo, on the other hand, does not compromise on quality over price. It’s very essence is a social, more cultured, to be savoured affair, relaxing with friends at the end of a working day. It’s also the perfect excuse for socialising without having to spend lots of money on a big meal or night out.
When I think Aperitivo it’s got to be:
- Aperol Spritz
- Amaretto Sour
- Hugo
- Peach bellini
- Gin Passion fruit
Let’s get cocktailing – what are you waiting for?
The Aperol spritz
Serve up in a pretty wine glass filled with ice and a slice of orange, pour in equal parts Prosecco, Aperol and soda.
Amaretto Sour
Pour the Amaretto, simple syrup, and lemon juice into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
Hugo
Prosecco, elderflower syrup and tonic, with fresh lime and mint for garnish. If you are a fan of a mojito like myself, you will love a hugo!
Peach Bellini
Pour bubbly booze over a sweet peach puree water. To make the peach puree add lemon juice and sugar, put in a blender until smooth. Fill a champagne flute a quarter full of the puree and then top off with Prosecco, champagne or sparkling wine.
Gin Passion fruit
Combine passion fruit juice with lemon and a splash of gin for this vibrant, sweet cocktail. Perfect for hot summer evenings.
So my friends…we have Italy to thank for reinforcing the appeal and glamour of cocktails.The cocktail trend really took off in the fifties, and Italy with its deep sense of fashion and design was perfectly suited to the ritual of cocktail preparation, served in uniquely shaped glasses. So drink away knowing this legacy has been handed down to us by the finest.
Instagrammers, these colourful drinks will boost your likes for sure!
