Top 10 aperitif recipes – from the classic welcome drink to the modern Spritz alternative

Are you looking for the best aperitif recipes to treat yourself, your guests, or your partner? In this article, we'll show you why a good aperitif is more than just an appetite stimulant – and which drinks you absolutely must try.

The roots of the aperitif

The term "aperitif" comes from the Latin "aperire," meaning "to open." Originally intended to prepare the stomach for a meal, the aperitif has long since evolved into a moment of enjoyment in its own right – especially in Mediterranean cultures. Today, it represents stylish toasting, anticipation of the evening, and relaxed conversation over a light drink.

When do you drink aperitifs?

Typically served during the "golden hour," between the end of the workday and dinner – alone, as a couple, or with friends. Aperitifs stimulate the appetite, prepare the palate for the meal, and mark the transition from day to evening.

Our top 10 aperitif recipes

1. Negroni

• 30 ml gin
• 30 ml red wormwood
• 30 ml Campari

Mix ingredients with ice, strain into a glass, garnish with orange zest.

2. Classic Martini

• 60 ml gin
• 10 ml of dry wormwood

Stir in a mixing glass over ice, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Serve with an olive.

3. Aperol Spritz

• 60 ml Aperol
• 90 ml Prosecco
• Splash of soda

Pour everything into a wine glass with ice and garnish with an orange slice.

4. CALMA – the new alternative to Aperol Spritz

• 3 parts CALOW Grapefruit Lime
• Part 1 Martini Fiero
• Orange zest & ice

Less sweet, less heavy, but full of character. CALMA is the modern interpretation of the classic aperitif – completely without added sugar, with 6% alcohol by volume and a subtle bitter note. Find out more on the CALMA blog .

5. Kir Royal

• 90 ml Champagne
• 10 ml Crème de Cassis

Pour crème de cassis into a glass, then top up with champagne.

6. Americano

• 30 ml Campari
• 30 ml red wormwood
• Splash of soda

Serve with ice cream and an orange slice.

7. CALOW Citrus Breeze

• 60 ml CALOW (variety of your choice)
• 30 ml fresh lime juice
• Splash of soda

Mix with ice, garnish with rosemary or pomegranate seeds. Especially refreshing with raspberry elderflower or blueberry basil .

8. Cucumber Elderflower Fizz – designed with sugar in mind

• 60 ml gin
• 30 ml elderflower syrup
• Spritzer CALOW Grapefruit Lime instead of tonic
• cucumber slices

Why CALOW instead of tonic? Tonic contains approximately 9g of sugar per 100ml, while CALOW contains only 1.9g. And thanks to its 6% ABV, you need less gin for the same effect.

9. Raspberry Pi Basil Sparkler

• 60 ml vodka
• 30 ml raspberry puree
• Fresh basil leaves or mint
• Spritzer Club Soda

With CALOW Raspberry Elderflower you can enhance the raspberry flavor or replace club soda.

10. The simplest aperitif: CALOW neat on ice

CALOW works perfectly without mixing – whether grapefruit lime , raspberry elderflower , blueberry basil , or peach ginger – enjoy it ice-cold. Only 6% ABV, 43 kcal/100 ml, no added sugar. Perfect for mindful, light enjoyment.

For calorie-conscious individuals

Want to enjoy an aperitif with less sugar and fewer calories? Then take a look at our calorie comparison . A classic Aperol Spritz has over 280 kcal – CALOW's version has around 107 kcal per 250 ml glass.

Conclusion

Whether classic or a modern twist: aperitif recipes are the perfect start to the evening. With CALOW, you'll discover a contemporary alternative to the classic Spritz – ready-to-drink, less sweet, stylish, and sophisticated. Secure your sample pack here and find your new favorite Spritz.