The sun has been in full swing here in Montepulciano, at some points in the day it has even reached 89 degrees Fahrenheit. Everyone is preparing their gardens, flowers are blooming and the air is filled with the scent of freshly cut grass. Italians are strongly known for “La Dolce far niente” (the sweetness of doing nothing) but when it comes to summer, we are far from having nothing to do.
Already you can hear an abundance of different languages throughout the narrow cobblestone streets. Their voices are filling the restaurants and enchanting the town with laughter. There is a feeling of relaxation around. It seems they have now adapted to the “La Dolce Vita” lifestyle.
This is the period our lovely grape vines start to grow increasingly faster showing off their greenery. While they are working hard to produce the September harvest, we have decided to give our wine a bit of a rest as well. No, we haven’t decided to stop drinking… but to switch it up instead. As they say… when one bottle closes, another one opens.
Five & 1/2 Aperitivo Cocktails to try out this Summer:
Mezcal & Aperol Cocktail
When you are in the mood for something refreshing, sweet, and strong! I found this recipe by fate and decided to try it out myself. It is a cocktail worth trying if you enjoy Mezcal. It may not be the easiest to order in a bar (usually its best to stick with the classics unless they mention it on the menu) but who says we can’t be our own bartenders at home? It is also light enough to enjoy one during the afternoon.
1.5 oz Mezcal
.5 oz Aperol
1 ounce fresh grapefruit juice
.5 ounce fresh lemon juice
.5 ounce agave (you can also substitute with simple syrup)
Hugo
“Simplicity is Authenticity” This proves true when ordering the newly popular Hugo cocktail. This cocktail was made in 2005 in northern Italy. It has since quickly spread throughout the country and is seen as the cousin of the Spritz. With three main ingredients and one of them being an herb, the Hugo is a delightful pick that will not disappoint. It is light, refreshing and a perfect addition to your summer afternoon.
1 Tablespoon elderflower syrup
1 Cup Prosecco chilled
A splash of sparkling water
Muddled mint
Wedge of lime
The Negroni
If you are in Florence, don’t miss the chance to order this Italian staple. Born in Bar Drogheria Casoni on Via de ‘Tornabuoni in the 1920’s. It has become one of Italy’s most beloved summer sips. In fact it became so popular that a variant of the Negroni sprouted up called “Sbagliato Negroni ''. Made with all of the same ingredients, except substituting gin with prosecco.
1 ounce Campari
1 ounce gin
1 ounce semisweet vermouth
Orange peel (or slice based of preference) to garnish
Sbagliato Negroni
1 ounce Campari
1 ounce semisweet vermouth
Topped with Prosecco
Orange peel (or slice based of preference) to garnish
Frozen Peach Bellini
We have to thank Venice, for our prized Bellini. It was there in the infamous Harry’s bar where the sweet off pink delight was created. This one is for the frozen drink lovers out there. With this creation we are taking a fabulous classic and chilling it a bit more. Aside from lemon granita, bars in Italy rarely serve anything frozen. Once in a blue moon you may be lucky to find a pina colada on the menu but typically this is rare. I would recommend trying this recipe out at home. With simple ingredients and the use of a blender within no time you will be sipping on a cool and sweet cocktail.
Frozen Peaches
.75 ounce peach schnapps
.5 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce simple syrup
A generous pour of Prosecco
Hand full of ice
Aperol Spritz
“The charm of what has been will remain and will not fade” Whether you love it or loathe it, we couldn’t make a list without mentioning the worlds arguably most famous aperitif. Its bold orange color makes it instantly recognisable and reminds us of warm sunsets near the mediterranean sea. Wherever you are in Italy, a spritz is never not in reach. This bittersweet refreshing drink is a classic for a reason. It is refreshingly low in alcohol so we can enjoy it really anytime of the day. If you are lounging by the pool early afternoon, relaxing before dinner, or starting your night out the Aperol Spritz is always a classic choice.
Aperol
Prosecco
A splash of club soda
Orange slice to garnish
