In our article, there are 10 rules to follow to organize and prepare a perfect aperitif.

The 10 golden rules of the perfect aperitif

Keep reading our article to discover 10 golden rules you should follow to organize and prepare an aperitif. For each point, we provide a brief explanation and some clarification about it.

1. The aim of the aperitif is to entertain the guests

The main functions of the aperitif are two: stimulating hunger, the following lunch or dinner will feed the guests, and entertain the guests, creating a welcoming, pleasant and convivial atmosphere.

2. The ideal aperitif is made before dinner

This is a surprising statement. The traditional aperitif is the one before dinner. You can prepare it even before lunch, but you should know that the ideal time to serve it, according to the Etiquette, is between 6 and 8 p.m.

3. The maximum duration of the aperitif is 20-30 minutes

According to Etiquette, the aperitif should not be too long. Its maximum duration must be between 20/30 minutes. The first course of the meal will be served within 30 minutes from the end of the aperitif.

4. The aperitif takes place in a special area

If you are planning an aperitif at home or in a place you have rented, you must prepare it in an area that is not the one where the meal will be consumed. If you have a room near the one where you have lunch or dinner, you should choose this solution. If you do not have this option, you should find a space to NOT have an aperitif on the same table and in the same space of dinner or lunch.

5. Light foods shall be served during the aperitif

The function of the aperitif is to "lead" guests to the main meal. For this reason, you should choose light foods and appetizers, so that they can be easily consumed by guests.

6. Prepare one type of wine and a couple of soft and non-alcoholic drinks

You should serve one type of wine, preferably a dry Italian sparkling wine. If there are several guests, prepare a number of bottles of the same wine adapted to the number of guests. You should also prepare a couple of versions of soft and non-alcoholic drinks.

7. Guests should not overdo it

This point is linked to the previous ones and specifically concerns the guests. For the success of the aperitif it is essential that guests give their contribution. The guest must moderate the consumption of food and drink. Dishes should not be filled too much with food and the consumption of wine and alcoholic beverages should not be excessive. In addition, queues near the buffet tables should be avoided. Finally, after consuming, the guest should store dishes, napkins and cutlery in the area provided for their collection.

8. The aperitif begins with the arrival of the first guest

The aperitif begins at the appointed time, at the arrival of the first guest. Maximum punctuality is required.

9. The host serves the aperitif

If the aperitif you have organized does not include a buffet, the host will take care of the service, both of the appetizers and drinks. Even in case of a buffet, the host, unless there are waiters, should take care of the service of wine and alcoholic beverages.

10. Guests should smile

Etiquette suggests making an aperitif with a smile to create the convivial atmosphere that should characterize it.

Did you know these rules of the aperitif Etiquette? Have you always respected them?