The Perfect Pre-Dinner Drink & Ritual Without Alcohol
There’s something special about that wedge in time before daylight closes and evening settles in. That magical moment when work has finished, dinner plans can wait, and the sun is starting to fade, going out in full neon glory. Italians refer to this fleeting time of day (or is it night?) as ‘aperitivo’, and, over time, they’ve crafted the most beautiful Mediterranean tradition around it; a thoroughly civilised practice we Aussies never knew we needed. Until now.
With the launch of Edenvale’s Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Aperitivo, we have the perfect reason to start a daily tradition of our own, taking mindful time out with a deliciously refreshing drink and simply soaking up the moment. Whether you're pregnant, sober-curious, driving, or simply choosing to drink less without sacrificing sophistication, aperitivo hour offers the perfect context for elegant pre-dinner entertaining. So, let’s learn more about the pre-dinner drinks ritual and how to make it yours.
What is Aperitivo? Understanding Italy's Most Civilised Tradition
For Italians, ‘aperitivo’ is not just a drink; it’s a state of mind. The word comes from the Latin aperitivus, meaning something that opens, an obvious reference to opening up the appetite. Whilst gastronomic historians can link the practice back to ancient Roman times, it appears to have really hit its straps in the northern Italian city of Torino (Turin) back in the 18th Century.
By that time, this uber-stylish city had established a marvellous cafe culture. An innovative and entrepreneurial local created Vermouth in the late 1700s. The herbaceous, spicy wine became a real hit across cafes, with many indulging in a cheeky drink and a small bite to eat to line the stomach before dinner.
It wasn’t long after that that iconic drinks such as Campari, Negroni and Aperol entered the market and, suddenly, aperitivo had options.
Why the Aperitivo Matters in Today’s Busy World
There is no hurry in the aperitivo. As the Italians might say, “piano-piano” (slowly-slowly) reigns supreme during this ritual. The event itself will typically take place sometime between 5 pm and 8 pm - that true golden hour. Importantly, the purpose is never to get tipsy (this is very different to Happy Hour). It’s about savouring the moment. Unlike dinner, which is an event in itself, aperitivo hour is more like a flexible pause.
The concept works brilliantly in an Australian context. We love laid-back entertaining and al fresco dining. We’ve always seen value in pre-dinner drinks on the deck, for example, but now we have structure through ritual, not to mention a lovely dabble in some European sophistication.
Why Aperitivo Works Perfectly Without Alcohol
Edenvale’s Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Aperitivo tastes like a slice of Mediterranean summer. Bursts of bittersweet citrus and subtle herbs combined with non-alcoholic wine and a slight effervescence are a great way to stimulate the appetite. The botanical flavours lend themselves well to any season of the year – perfect for al fresco summer moments but equally ideal sipping whilst rugged up in a blanket in front of the fire.
Italian culture has never positioned this pre-dinner drink as a chance to get inebriated. On the contrary, it should stimulate and enhance the appetite. Some spirits that might traditionally form part of an aperitivo can be as high as 40% in alcoholic content.
Edenvale removes the alcohol but retains key flavour profiles – the bittersweet citrus, the botanical complexity, and the refreshing sparkle still deliver everything that makes this drink so special.
It’s also the power of a ritual, rather than any alcohol influence, that makes this such an enticing drink. Knowing you have that moment to look forward to (your very own slice of ‘la dolce vita’), no matter how frantic the rest of the day has been, is something really positive. For many, it’s reassuring to know they can indulge every day in a guilt-LESS pleasure.
Alcohol-Free Aperitivos Suit Many Australians
Fantastic flavours aside, this drink is sure to appeal to many Aussie wine lovers, including:
- Wellness goals – the growing understanding that alcohol, even in moderate amounts, affects our health, sleep, and energy levels. Aperitivo hour with Edenvale offers a way to maintain sophisticated social rituals and enjoy non-alcoholic drinks whilst supporting your wellbeing goals.
- Social inclusion – When everyone’s gathered with something special in hand, participating in the same ritual, the absence of alcohol becomes irrelevant. You're not the odd one out pursuing an alcohol-free lifestyle with a sparkling mineral water in hand; you're all enjoying a drink together.
- Mindful living – Rather than mindlessly drinking whatever's cold in the fridge, aperitivo encourages intentionality. You're choosing a specific drink for a particular purpose at a specific time of day. There's ceremony involved, from the glassware selection to the orange garnish to the deliberate slowing down.
- Family-friendly – It’s important to some parents that their children see them enjoying themselves without alcohol. If that’s the case for you, Edenvale’s alcohol-removed Sparkling Aperitivo is ideal as a healthy drinking option.
Aperitivo Food: Tasty Nibbles to Enjoy
Remember, this pre-dinner drink is flexible. You can enjoy it indoors, outdoors, with friends, alone, with food, without. It’s entirely up to you and the day you’re living!
| Simple Food Ideas for Aperitivo Hour | More Fancy Food Ideas for Aperitivo Hour |
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FAQs
What Time Should You Have Aperitivo?
It is typically enjoyed as the day ends and the evening begins, so somewhere around 5 pm – 7 pm.
How Long Does Aperitivo Hour Last?
This pre-dinner drink can last as long as you want! By its very nature, it is flexible. However, its purpose is to act as a segue into dinner. As such, it typically lasts for an hour or two at most.
Can You Have Aperitivo Without Dinner?
The whole idea of the aperitivo is to whet your appetite for dinner. So strictly speaking, you would never have dinner with the aperitivo but, rather, after it. That’s not to say you can’t enjoy something to eat as well! However, it will typically be something small – hors d'oeuvres or appetisers rather than a substantial serve of anything.
What's the Difference Between Aperitivo and Happy Hour?
The main difference between the two is their origins and purpose. Whereas the aperitivo began in Italy as a means of stimulating one’s appetite, Happy Hour is an American marketing concept designed to offer discounted drinks that lead to more purchases.
What Food Goes with Bittersweet Aperitivo?
Bittersweet aperitivo pairs beautifully with salty, savoury foods that stimulate appetite: aged cheeses, cured meats (prosciutto, salami), marinated olives, smoked salmon, and crusty bread. Australian entertaining ideas, such as Sydney Rock oysters, Tasmanian salmon, and local artisan cheeses, work perfectly. Portions should be small – this pre-dinner drink food is meant to tease the appetite, not satisfy it.
