Organizing an aperitivo might seem simple: a bottle of wine, a few snacks, and you’re good to go. But… which wine? Which snacks? And how should everything be served?
Here’s a curated selection of Italian wines chosen for their ability to elevate the aperitivo experience — light, fresh, and incredibly drinkable. Keep in mind that aperitivo is just the beginning. You’ll likely continue drinking through lunch or dinner, so the wine should be easy on the palate and not too heavy. That’s why the right pairing — even a small bite — can enhance the wine and set the perfect tone for the rest of the evening.
Start with Bubbles
Franciacorta Brut (Lombardy): Made using the classic method, it features notes of wild berries and a subtle apple finish with a touch of bitterness that adds character. Serve it in a flute glass to let the aromas open slowly. Elegant and refined, it pairs beautifully with veggie crudités, mixed crostini, and light fried bites.
Prosecco Superiore DOCG (Valdobbiadene, Veneto): Fruity, floral, and refreshing — perfect with cheeses, focaccia, and olives.
Trento DOC (Trentino-Alto Adige): Sophisticated and dry, great for a more elegant aperitivo with seafood salad, shrimp in cocktail sauce, or shellfish.
Lambrusco di Sorbara (Emilia-Romagna): Looking for something different? This fizzy and thirst-quenching wine is incredibly versatile, ideal with a selection of cured meats.
White Wines That Shine at Aperitivo Hour
Italian whites are known for their lively acidity and freshness — the kind that wakes up your palate and invites good conversation.
Vermentino di Gallura DOCG (Sardinia): Crisp and savory, delicious with seafood crostini.
Fiano di Avellino (Campania): Complex and structured, it pairs well with seafood-based canapés and light fried snacks.
Sauvignon from Friuli: Aromatic and intense, perfect with vegetable tartlets and rustic savory pies.
Pecorino (Abruzzo): Fresh yet bold, a great match for bruschetta and cheese boards.
Vermentino di Cagliari Superiore DOC Giba Bianco 2024 Cantina Giba
| Denominazione | Vermentino di Cagliari Superiore Doc |
| Vitigno | Vermentino 100% |
| Zona di Produzione | Sardegna |
| Tipologia | Vino bianco |
| Gradazione alcolica | 14% |
| Temperatura di servizio | 10-12 C° |
| Formato | 0,75 |
Don’t Overlook the Rosés
Rosé wines offer a happy balance of freshness and flavor — ideal for late afternoons and golden hour gatherings.
Chiaretto di Bardolino (Veneto): Floral and delicate, it pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, fish tartare, and bruschetta.
Cerasuolo d’Abruzzo: Rich in color and structure, it’s great with cold cuts and fried veggie bites.
Yes, You Can Aperitivo with Red Wine Too
The secret? Choose reds that are light-bodied, fruit-forward, and with a bright acidity.
Barbera (Piedmont): Light, a bit spicy, and refreshingly acidic — ideal with savory snacks.
Dolcetto (Piedmont): A Piedmont classic, with gentle tannins and cherry notes — perfect with cured meats.
Schiava (Vernatsch, Alto Adige): Delicate and fruit-driven, this red shines alongside flavorful local cheeses and charcuterie.
Dolcetto D’Alba Doc 2010 Bruno Giacosa
| Denominazione | Doc |
| Vitigno | Dolcetto 100% |
| Zona di Produzione | Piemonte |
| Tipologia | Vino rosso |
| Gradazione alcolica | 14 % |
| Temperatura di servizio | 16-18°C |
| Formato | 0,75 |
Final Thoughts
The right wine can turn your aperitivo from a simple ritual into a truly special moment. Whether it’s a crisp white, an elegant sparkling, or a delicate rosé, the key is balance — between lightness, aroma, and food pairing.
Aperitivo isn’t just a prelude to dinner; it’s an opportunity to savor wine and discover the story it tells about its region of origin. With a bit of curiosity and a taste for exploration, every glass becomes a journey through Italy’s rich winemaking heritage.
Cheers — or as we say in Italy, cin cin!