Contratto Aperitif

I’m sure many of you are well acquainted with Campari or you may have tried Aperol…best known for its fantastic colour in an Aperol Spitz, but have you come across Contratto Aperitif and who knows what it actually is?

What is it?

The original recipe from 1935 is based on a combination of 28 delicately infused premium natural botanicals. A traditional process of cold maceration is used to create a sophisticated, all natural, complex and well balanced ’boutique’ aperitif that will make any Contratto based cocktail an exceptional experience. It gets its vibrant colour from vegetable extracts – Carrot and Beetroot.

History Aperitif Contratto

Contratto was founded in 1867 by Giuseppe Contratto and the winery is known as the oldest producer of sparkling wine in Italy. In fact, the “Metodo Classico” 1919 Contratto Extra Brut was the first vintage sparkling wine ever made in the country. Contratto Aperitif has only recently been launched and makes a great alternative to some of the more usual industry products used today.

The difference between Contratto and Aperol

Aperol is an Italian aperitif similar to Campari but sweeter in taste. Aperol was originally produced by the Barbieri brothers in 1919 in Padova. However it did not become successful until after World War II, from then until today the popularity of Aperol has grown continuously, thanks to its fresh and versatile taste and its capacity to be mixed with so many other drinks. Aperol then entered Gruppo Campari’s portfolio, reaching new records of popularity and diffusion. 

When and how to drink it

Although you could drink it on its own, Contratto Aperitif is meant to be mixed and lengthening it with soda or sparkling wine is probably your best option. Contratto also recommend lemon, lime or rhubarb juice for a refreshing low alcohol drink. Alternatively add vodka or gin and vermouth for an aperitif version of a Negroni.

The Contrattino
This is their suggested serve:

1 part Contratto Aperitif
1 part Dry Sparkling Wine

Served over ice with a lemon twist.

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This has been the drink of summer for the last couple of years.  With its relatively low alcohol content its perfect for  warm summer afternoons. Best of all, it’s super easy. Here’s how its done…3 parts prosecco
2 parts Contratto Aperitif
1 part soda water
Slice of orange

Pour over ice and top with a slice of orange (we like to serve ours in a large balloon wine glass). Enjoy!

Image credit Contratto and Campari

 

Alternatively you can Sign up now and be the first to try this in our October Pisco kit.

 

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