L’apéro French Style

L’apéro, short for l’apéritif, is the French American Happy Hour. Where does the word apéritif come from? It comes from the Latin “aperire” which means to open and, in that sense, to stimulate your appetite before a meal or ouvrir l’appétit.

“Prendre l’apéro” is a French ritual of getting together with friends or family to enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail before dinner, along with some finger foods.

It is a convivial time to unwind, socialize while sipping your favorite drink and nibbling or grignoter on some little snacks or amuse-gueules such as almonds, olives, saucisson, charcuterie, veggie sticks, etc. The French charcuterie tray is light and elegant and not as opulent as the American version, unless you’re having an Apéro Dînatoire, which will be instead of dinner or a snack dinner, and in that case, there are many creative options from a simple cheese tray, some pissaladière, or brochettes.

L’apéro is such a social ritual that the French had to improvise it during the confinement, and thus, the Skype or Zoom apéro became the norm. French lifestyle is about human connection and savoir vivre after all!

My favorite French cocktail or apéro is: Kir Royal! The original Kir is a delicious mix of white wine, such as a Bourgogne Aligoté ( or any nice white wine you prefer), and black-currant liqueur or crème de cassis. To make it royal, replace white wine with an ice-chilled champagne and a dash of crème de cassis, and voilà, enjoy Kir Royal! ( Garnish with a lemon twist, optional.)

Another favorite, especially on the weekend, is the ever-bubbly Mimosa! A simple blend of champagne, bubbly, and fresh orange juice or grapefruit juice, ever-flowing during California Champagne Brunch… or anytime!

Other popular French cocktails include Pastis or Ricard, especially during the summer, Rosé de Provence, Kir (wine and crème de cassis), Wine, Panaché beer & soda, Lillet, Suze, etc.

C’est l’heure de l’apéro! Alors trinquons, let’s toast! Cheers! À votre santé! À la vôtre! Tchin Tchin!