The Ultimate Guide to Apéritif Wines

Summer is calling, and there’s no better way to answer than with a chilled glass of something delicious in hand. Whether you’re kicking back on a sun-drenched terrace or hosting a lively garden party, apéritif wines are your ticket to those unforgettable moments with friends.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: what makes this wine special, the most popular styles, how to serve them like a pro, and the food pairings that’ll make your next gathering shine.

What is Apéritif Wine?

Let’s start with the basics. Apéritif wines are those magical bottles of wine you enjoy before a meal. Their ingredients like herbs, spices, and citrus help get your taste buds tingling and your appetite roaring because of. They're light, refreshing, and just a little bit special.

Most apéritif wines are types of fortified wines, meaning they have a little extra alcohol added, but not so much that they’re heavy. This process boosts their alcohol content, usually landing somewhere between 15% and 22% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), though classic apéritifs are often a bit lighter than that. They usually have a crisp, lively taste, sometimes a little dry, sometimes a touch of sweetness, and are easy to sip.

So, when you drink an apéritif before dinner, you’re not just enjoying a drink, you’re setting the mood for a great meal ahead!

Popular Types of Apéritif Wines

Apéritif wines are very diverse. You can absolutely find something specific for your gathering. This guide will help out to make the perfect decision:

Sparkling Wines

When it comes to sparkling wines such as Champagnes, Proseccos, and English bubbly, each brings its own twist of effervescence to the party. These wines are the life of any gathering, thanks to their lively bubbles and crisp, refreshing taste. Sparkling wines are the perfect apéritif wines for celebrations or simply when you want to add a little sparkle to your day.

The bright acidity and delicate floral notes of these types of apéritif wines make them a hit with light cheeses, seafood, and salty snacks; just the thing to get the conversation flowing.

Dry Rosé Wines

Nothing says summer like a glass of dry rosé! Provence rosé, in particular, is famous for its pale pink hue and delicate, refreshing acidity. These elegant wines are light on the palate, with subtle fruity notes and a crisp finish that keeps you coming back for more.

Dry rosé is the best companion for lazy afternoons or lively soirées. It pairs brilliantly with olives, charcuterie, and light salads. So, apéritif wines are your best choice for your next apéritif experience.

Light-bodied White Wines

If you’re after something fresh and zesty, look no further than light-bodied white wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio. These wines offer a fresh, crisp profile, bursting with fruity accents like citrus, green apple, and sometimes a faint suggestion of tropical fruit.

Their refreshing acidity and clean finish make them ideal for sipping on a hot day. Pair them with fresh seafood, goat cheese, or a platter of crisp vegetables for a match made in heaven.

Fortified Wines (Vermouth, Sherry)

For those who like their apéritif wines with a little more oomph, fortified wines like Vermouth and Sherry are the way to go. Blended with a splash of spirit, these wines feature a slightly increased alcohol content and a more nuanced, aromatic quality.

White vermouth and dry Sherry (like Fino) are classic choices, offering layers of herbal, nutty, and sometimes citrusy flavors. They’re a little stronger and more intense than your average apéritif wine, but still light enough to enjoy before dinner.

Enjoy them cold, neat, or on the rocks, and prepare to receive plenty of praise.

How to Serve Apéritif Wines

Getting the most out of your apéritif experience is all about the details. Here’s how to do it right:  

• Serve chilled: Most apéritif wines taste best when they’re cool and refreshing. Sparkling wines should be served well chilled, while light-bodied white wines and dry rosé are perfect at a slightly warmer, but still cool, temperature.
• Choose the right glassware: Use a flute for sparkling wines, a classic white wine glass for light-bodied white wines and rosé, and a small tumbler or sherry glass for fortified wines.
• Smaller servings: Keep your servings modest. Smaller glasses encourage sipping and keep the appetite sharp for the meal ahead.
• Moments with friends: Don’t forget, the real magic happens when you share your bottles of wine with good company. Make every sip from your delicious wine count.

Food Pairings with Apéritif Wines

Pairing your apéritif wine with the right nibbles is the secret to a memorable start to any meal. Here’s a quick guide to the best matches:

• Sparkling wines: Light cheeses like Brie or goat cheese, seafood, and salty almonds or crisps all pair wonderfully with sparkling wines. The bubbles and acidity balance the richness and refresh your palate. For an extra twist, add a splash of citrus to your seafood or cheese board to really bring out the bright flavors and complement the wine’s crispness.
• Rosé wine: Olives, charcuterie, and light salads pair perfectly with rosé. The crisp acidity and floral notes of rosé complement savory and salty flavors beautifully.
• White wine: Fresh seafood, goat cheese crostini, and zesty crudités are ideal with bright, fruity wines like Sauvignon Blanc. The vibrant acidity, citrusy fruit, and herbal notes cut through richness and perfectly complement the delicate, briny, and tangy flavors of these dishes.
• Vermouth/Sherry: Savory snacks let complex and aromatic wines such as white vermouth or dry Sherry shine. To make this happen, pair these apéritif wines with nuts, olives, tapas, and more.

Discover Aperitif Wines from The Wine Caverns

At The Wine Caverns, we’ve curated a selection of exclusive apéritif wines that are sure to impress. You’ll find plenty to love here: classic sparkling wines, crisp Sauvignon Blanc, or elegant floral wines, each crafted to satisfy different tastes.

Our bottles of apéritif wine come straight from the vineyard, ensuring you get the freshest, most authentic flavors. We’re proud to offer organic and sustainable options for those who care about what they drink and the planet. And with quick, secure, and free UK delivery, there’s no reason not to treat yourself and your friends to the perfect apéritif wines this summer.