Originating in antiquity, the apéritif (from the Latin apervitus meaning “to open”) is a tradition that is still widely followed in Europe, and particularly in France, where it was modernized in the 19th century by... a chemist fighting malaria. This festive event occupies such an important place in French culture that an Heritage aperitif will be held in 2024 during the European Heritage Days.
In 1846, French chemist Joseph Dubonnet came up with the idea of a wine-quinine-based drink to combat malaria. To mask its bitter taste, he added a decoction of herbs and spices and, to his great surprise, the potion was so successful that it soon left the medical domain and entered the world of conviviality.
Today, the French consume all kinds of drinks: pastis in the South, cider in Brittany/Normandy, wine in Provence and Champagne in ... Champagne. But if you look at it more closely, the regional habits are not so marked : it is indeed, by far, beer that is unanimous consumed all over the country !
On the other hand, at the time of toasting, the particularisms resist with practically a specific expression by region: all the diversity of France illustrated by this moment of conviviality very popular and mostly accompanied by ... chips.
From September 20 to 22, 2024, national wines and liqueurs will be in the spotlight during the European Heritage Days, with the third edition of the Apéritif du Patrimoine.
In some fifteen towns, tastings, lectures, tours and workshops will celebrate the tricolore art de vivre by sampling a variety of beverages and discovering the architectural and industrial heritage associated with their production.
And for those inspired by their travels and the tasting of specialties such as Scandinavian pickles, Italian antipasti or Spanish tapas, it is also possible to excite your taste buds with the recipes of Domaine Terra, the gastronomic cannery of Aquitaine. Hummus with garlic and lemon, butternut with peanuts and curry, roasted tomatoes with balsamic vinegar... here are a few ideas of gourmet products for your aperitif trays.
Are you looking for other ideas for a special occasion? The Ducasse School offers dedicated workshops to make you a pro at this convivial gathering.
Whatever the place or the recipe, an aperitif with friends is always a good idea. Cheers !
Valérie from Comme des Français
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To accompany your aperitif:
Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, consume in moderation.
