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Aperitif
General Wine Term
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An aperitif is an alcoholic drink sipped before a meal, usually with a small appetizer. It is said to stimulate the appetite.
The origination of the aperitif is subject to debate, but some claim it dates as far back as the ancient Egyptians.
Both vermouth and sherry are common aperitifs. France and Italy (where it is known as aperitivo) enjoy the custom far more than any other country.
The opposite of an aperitif is a digestif, which, as you may have guessed, is consumed after a meal. The digestif is typically more alcoholic than the aperitif and is said to help with digestion. Common digestifs include cognac, brandy, port and dessert wines.
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