Also known as “sessions”, these low-octane concoctions are made using ingredients that have an ABV content no higher than 20 percent. So, instead of the usual suspects like whiskey and vodka, you get vermouth, sherry, and fortified vino.
“Bartenders want to do something different and consumers want to try something different. Drinks like Italian aperitifs have been around for a very long time, and today, they’re – once again – becoming an increasingly common sight around the world," Mr Ainsbury adds.
That’s the thing about low-proof tipples like aperitifs and spritzes: you can most definitely enjoy multiple swigs without worrying about the nasty spins and the dreaded hangover. Along with TMBTP, watering holes in other parts of the world – including Ox & Son in Santa Monica, California, NYC's Betony, London’s White Lyan (famed for their bottled spritzes and cocktails), and UK bar chain The Botanist – also see the value in offering such options.
- You’re more likely to be able to savour the different flavours. The optimum ABV level for appreciating taste is between 12 to 15 percent – that’s what you usually get with low-alcohol cocktails. Also, plenty of these drinks are carbonated, and carbonation creates a nerve response in the tongue and the mouth, which intensifies aromas and overall taste of the beverage.
- Perfect for daytime drinking. Want to imbibe early in the day without calling it quits (or feeling sick) by 7pm? With low-ABV mixes, you can. Opting for less boozy options also means you’ll have a much more enjoyable experience at social events – you know, sans regrettable moments and embarrassing conversations.
- They can help stimulate the appetite. To rev up your taste buds just before an amazing meal, sip on an aperitif. Alcohol interferes with taste receptors, so choose something that doesn’t kill the palate – either a wine-based aperitif (vermouths, sherries) or a spirit-based one (Campari, Suze).
- Easy Like Sunday Morning at The Library – Sloe gin, Rinomato Aperitivo, dry vermouth, tonic water, rose water, and Burlesque Bitters (S$23)
- Flamingo at Jigger and Pony – Aperol, grapefruit, passionfruit, prosecco (S$22)
- Summer Cup at CÉ LA VI – Pimm's No. 1, ginger ale, cucumber, fresh fruits (S$24)
- CBGB at Manhattan – Champagne, berries, basil, pink grapefruit, peach bitters, absinthe (S$24)
