Aperol Aperitivo, Italy (11%, 70cl)

When the Barbieri brothers first unveiled their sunset-orange elixir at the 1919 Padova Fair, they bottled the essence of Italian joie de vivre. This 11% ABV aperitif achieves its signature lively balance through a precise blend of bitter oranges, sweet rhubarb, and an undisclosed mix of herbs - including just enough gentian root to provide structure without overwhelming its playful character. The exact recipe remains secret, though blood orange zest and vanilla pod nuances emerge beneath its translucent coral hue.

The nose bursts with freshly peeled tangerines and ripe apricots, lifted by whispers of alpine herbs and orange blossoms. On the palate, the initial rush of candied citrus gives way to rhubarb's tart snap, finishing with a clean, quinine-kissed bitterness that refreshes rather than lingers. That lower alcohol content isn't timidity - it's genius, making Aperol the ultimate day-to-night companion.

Venetians perfected its serving ritual: three parts prosecco, two parts Aperol, one splash of soda, and a single orange wheel over ice in a stemmed wine glass. Yet its magic extends beyond spritzes - try it with grapefruit juice for a bracing start to brunch, or shaken into a bitter margarita for poolside sophistication. The bottle's retro label, unchanged since the 1950s, promises the same carefree summers it delivered to postwar Italy.

Available at our Copenhagen store or for EU-wide delivery.