Six cocktails: Italian aperitifs

# 1 - Negroni

Invented in Florence in 1919 at the Casoni Café, a popular meeting place for the aristocracy, the Negroni was named after a count who delighted in bitter flavours and wanted an aperitif that was more full-bodied than the classic Americano, which was very popular at that time.

# 2 - Aperol Spritz

When the sun begins to set in Venice, tables on terrasses everywhere are suddenly filled with examples of this fresh, sparkling, citrusy cocktail. The spritz con Aperol is loved by Venetians and tourists alike.

# 3 - Amaretto Sour

Adored for its bittersweet flavour, the Amaretto Sour is known for its distinctive almond notes. The very popular sour-type cocktails belong to one of the oldest families of original cocktails: They were featured in the very first book dedicated to cocktails, which was published in 1862.

# 4 - Bellini

The Bellini cocktail was created in 1948 at Harry’s Bar in Venice. The bar owner’s son, Arrigo Cipriani, named the cocktail in reference to its pinkish orange hue, a colour often found in the works of Renaissance painter Giovanni Bellini.

# 5 - Americano

Invented in Italy in 1861 by Gaspare Campari, the Americano first became popular during Prohibition, when Americans discovered Campari as an aperitif. But because they found it too bitter for their tastes, Italian bartenders hid the bitterness by adding red vermouth, giving the blend the name Americano.

# 6 - Margarita italiana

The Margarita Italiana is a great introduction to the wonders of Limoncello, the lemon liqueur created in Campania, where lemon trees line the cliffs. This cocktail will transport you to the sunshine of the Amalfi Coast!