PERFECT DRINKS FOR YOUR GOLDEN HOUR APERITIVO EXPERIENCE

Aperitivo—a cherished Italian tradition—is not merely about drinks; it’s an experience, a moment of relaxation and enjoyment. Savor the ambiance of our bars, where every pour is a tribute to craftsmanship and every sip is an invitation to linger a little longer. Indulging in an aperitivo isn’t just about unwinding—it’s an art form. It’s about embracing the moment, savoring the flavors, and setting the tone for a memorable evening. But with so many drink options available, choosing the perfect one can be a delightful challenge. With our curated selection of drink suggestions, we’ll help you navigate the world of aperitifs effortlessly.

Start the day with a smile, end it with a spritz.

When it comes to embodying the essence of the Italian aperitivo culture, few drinks rival the beloved Italian spritz, an iconic symbol of relaxation and conviviality. Originating in the charming cafes of Venice, this effervescent cocktail has transcended borders to become a favorite choice for those seeking to unwind and indulge in the golden hours of the evening. The classic recipe of Prosecco, Aperol or Campari, and soda water, is just the beginning: experimentation knows no bounds, with different liqueurs, spirits, and regional twists adding depth and excitement to the spritz experience.

“Wine cheers the sad, revives the old, inspires the young, and makes weariness forget his toil.” -Lord Byron

In the rich tapestry of Italian aperitivo traditions, every wine plays its part: Prosecco, with its effervescent charm, takes the spotlight, offering a refreshing and lively option, whether enjoyed straight or as the base for a variety of tantalizing cocktails. Then, there’s red wine, with its robust and soulful character, adding depth and complexity to your aperitivo experience. From the bold and fruity notes of a Sangiovese to the spicy allure of a Syrah, like our Sustinet IGT Toscana, each sip tells a story of Italian heritage and flavor. Rosè, the epitome of summer sophistication, with its delicate hues and refreshing taste, is a versatile gem in the world of wine and thanks to its fruity notes it seamlessly transitions between seasons and occasions. Try it by itself or in our spritz variations, the Spritz en Rose, crafted with a base of Rosè and infused with rose syrup, or in our Hugo en Rose, in which again, the Prosecco makes room for the Rosè.

Bitter is better, especially in a Negroni.

In the heart of Florence, Tuscany, the Negroni was born—a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. Crafted in the early 20th century, its bold blend of gin, vermouth, and Campari was conceived by Count Camillo Negroni, who sought a stronger version of the Americano, also known as the Milano-Torino, another popular choice during aperitivo hours made with Vermouth, Campari and soda. Over the years, this iconic cocktail has become a symbol of Italian sophistication, celebrated worldwide for its perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness. But amidst tradition comes innovation, and the “Negroni Sbagliato” (“wrong Negroni”)—a happy accident where gin is swapped for Prosecco—adds a delightful twist to this iconic cocktail, offering a lighter and effervescent take on its rich legacy while still retaining the essence of its Tuscan roots. Another evolution of the cocktail is the “Negroni Bianco” (“white Negroni”), in which the red bitter and vermouth are both switched for their colorless white versions to get a lighter, more floral flavor. Furthermore, our bar proudly presents its own rendition of the Negroni Bianco in the Conte Negroni, made with all-around Tuscan ingredients: Gin distilled with only Tuscan juniper berries, Tuscan white vermouth and Tuscan white bitter. With its bold flavors and effervescence, the Negroni and its counterparts perfectly complement the array of flavors found in an aperitivo spread.

Bellini: A Symphony of Flavor

Bellini emerges as a timeless icon, steeped in history and artistic allure. Born in the vibrant ambiance of Harry’s Bar in Venice, its inception by Giuseppe Cipriani in the 1940s was a stroke of genius- a harmomious blend of white peach purée and Prosecco, created in homage to Venetian artist Giovanni Bellini. Symbolizing the artistry of simplicity, Bellini’s delicate pink hue and effervescent sparkle evoke the romance of Venetian sunsets and the spirit of la dolce vita. At our bar, we pay homage to this classic cocktail with a twist that’s perfect for the modern aperitivo enthusiast: our Bellini en Rose offers a contemporary interpretation with Rosè instead of Prosecco, to savor the essence of tradition and innovation.

For those eager to delve deeper into the world of mixology, we proudly offer our exclusive “Garden to Glass Mixology Workshop” at the Tree Lounge Bar