For the aperitif there is not only sparkling wine or prosecco. White, rosé and even some red wines can also accompany cured meats, cheeses, bruschetta and finger food very well. Altroconsumo has selected five Italian labels, different by territory and grape variety, which stand out for characteristics particularly suited to this convivial moment.
But how to orient yourself among so many possibilities? Much depends on what we bring to the table: freshness, aromas and structure of the wine can make the difference and make the pairing even more pleasant.
Let’s find out immediately which are the best wines.
Three whites perfect for an aperitif
White is probably one of the most immediate choices when it comes to an aperitif. Its freshness lends itself to many combinations, from vegetarian options to fried foods, including fish and cheeses. Among the different types taken into consideration, Altroconsumo highlights three white wines that come from very different areas and vines.
Principe Pallavicini Lazio Bianco IGT Aurora 2023
The first is a Lazio Bianco IGT, an expression of the regional winemaking tradition. This type can be produced using different vines authorized in Lazio, including Chardonnay, Trebbiano Toscano and Malvasia del Lazio.
The one indicated by Altroconsumo it is the Principe Pallavicini Lazio Bianco IGT Aurora 2023, obtained from a blend of grapes that includes Chardonnay and Sauvignon. It has an alcohol content of 13% and, according to the evaluation reported by the association, an overall good quality.
Its profile makes it suitable for a varied aperitif and experts also report a rather low sulphite content, about half compared to the limit set for white wines.
Mandrarossa Zibibbo dry Terre Siciliane IGT 2024
Those who want to break away from the usual pairings can focus on a dry Zibibbo, a less common version of a Sicilian grape variety often associated with sweet and passito wines. The dry Mandrarossa Zibibbo Terre Siciliane IGT 2024, obtained 100% from Zibibbo grapes, has an alcohol content of 13% vol. and is indicated by Altroconsumo like a good quality wine.
Its particularity is above all in the aromatic profile, characterized by notes that recall jasmine, orange blossom, cedar, orange peel, sage and thyme.
It is an interesting choice for an aperitif with Mediterranean flavors: it can be paired with Sicilian caponata, salted dried fruit, raw vegetables and fried fish. Also in this case the sulphite content is approximately half the limit set for white wines.
Contadi Castaldi Curtefranca Bianco DOC 2024
The third white comes from Lombardy, precisely from the area of the province of Brescia, in the same territory that made Franciacorta famous. This is the Curtefranca Bianco DOC 2024 by Contadi Castaldi, produced with 100% Chardonnay. The grapes are harvested in August and, after fermentation, the wine is aged for seven months in steel containers.
At the table it is especially suited to fresh cheeses, pizzas, hummus, olives and bruschetta with seasonal vegetables.
The rosé
For those who prefer a rosé wine, the choice indicated by Altroconsumo is one of the most characteristic expressions of Abruzzo oenology: Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo DOC.
It is obtained mainly from Montepulciano grapes and is recognized by its characteristic intense pink color, from which the name derives. On the nose it can recall rose, strawberry, raspberry, cherry and pomegranate, while the good structure allows it to also accompany foods with a strong flavour.
It is particularly suitable with cured meats, fresh or medium-aged cheeses, stuffed focaccias, chips, pizzas, sandwiches with fish and vegetables and Ascoli style olives. A very versatile solution, especially for those who want a fresh but not too light wine.
And who prefers red?
Red is not necessarily excluded from the aperitif. The choice, however, should fall on wines characterized by freshness and not too aggressive tannins, easier to pair with appetizers and light preparations.
Among these Altroconsumo highlights the Bardolino DOC, produced on the moraine hills of the eastern shore of Lake Garda, in the province of Verona.
The denomination mainly includes Corvina Veronese and Rondinella, with the possibility of also using other authorized vines. The result is a fresh wine, with aromas that are especially reminiscent of small red fruits.
Among the Bardolinos analyzed in the comparison, the best response was obtained by the Masi Bardolino Classico DOC Frescaripa 2023, rated as an excellent quality wine. It is obtained from the traditional Veronese grapes Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara and presents, second Altroconsumoa sulphite content significantly lower than the legal limits.
At the table it can accompany cured meats and cheeses, crostini with olive pâté, savory pies, meat or vegetable meatballs, pancakes and other light fried foods.
