After exploring the world of pasta, rice, and Italy’s deep-rooted love for vegetables, ItaliaSquisita has now widened its narrative beyond ingredients to define a true moment of conviviality: the aperitif – one of the most cherished, celebrated, talked of and quintessentially Italian rituals.
Aperitivo is a real social phenomenon, whose genesis weave together Mediterranean wine traditions and international mixology, shaped by visionary individuals and industrial enterprises that have influenced the history of the Italian economy and taste.
The book trace the evolution of the aperitif—from an elite 19th-century custom in Northern Italy to a national and global trend. Describes at a technical level the distinctive characteristics of Vermouth and Bitter, the two pillars of Iltalian mixology, and then gives the floor directly to the professionals.
Old-time favourites like Negroni, Sbagliato, Spritz, and timeless classics such as Bellini, Americano, and Dry Martini are presented by top Italian bartenders working in the world’s most prestigious bars, hotels, and restaurants. A dynamic interplay of legacy and evolution, often originating from the historic venues that, in some cases, literally gave birth to Italy’s most iconic cocktails.
The most beloved staples like chips, olives, and tramezzini, the enduring aperitivo traditions of Milan, Venice, and Turin, sit alongside contemporary aperitif dishes crafted by Italy’s finest chefs. Food and drinks are now blended in a veritable alchemic process that shapes and enriches both the Italian and international mixology scene.
The book is only available for purchase on Vertical's shop, the publishing house of ItaliaSquisita, and it was presented during the event on May 5th at Bar Basso. Here's the reportage of the evening.
