Sante! The aperitif is back. Forget the crass cocktail - the chic aperitif is the choice of the discerning drinker. From the Latin aperire ('to open'), an aperitif not only kick-starts the palate but is the most delightful way to begin an evening. More and more people are falling for the charms of this light, refreshing, and aromatic way of drinking, and bars dedicated to aperitifs are opening around the world. Characterized by their dryness, freshness, and bitter flavors, many aperitifs are also low in alcohol, making them a perfect choice for health-conscious barflies. In Aperitif, acclaimed drinks writer Kate Hawkings romps through the history of how these drinks came into being across the great drinking nations of Europe and beyond. And after a look at the science of why these drinks work so well as appetizers, she peruses anything and everything that can be considered as an aperitif: what it is, what to look for, and how best to drink it. From amaro to gin, through spritzes to Campari and Lillet, and with suggested recipes or serving suggestions for each kind of booze, Aperitif encourages you to sit back, sip, and anticipate the pleasures that the evening holds. | Aperitif by Kate Hawkings, Hardcover | Indigo Chapters