How to Create the Perfect Christmas Aperitif

 

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and what better way to celebrate with your loved ones and friends than by hosting a Christmas afternoon aperitif! Whether you're in iso or having a small (and safe) gathering, here are a few ideas we've come up with for the a delicious food spread, stellar drink options, and decorative tips and tricks.

 

First start off with a cheese and cracker board, add some nuts, dips, a baguette, dried fruits and olives decoratively spread to fill the space. For something extra special, try making some fun skewers by adding cherry tomatoes and bocconcini and drizzling over balsamic glaze. For a little colour, make a big summer fruit platter to compliment the cheeses. Cherries, juicy stone fruits, grapes are a perfect and mess-free addition to an aperitif. Finish off the spread with something sweet, we suggest rocky road and gingerbread cookies. Set up all of your food on your best chopping boards and crockery.

While our usual go-to aperitif is an Apérol Spritz, this year embracing the festivity and we're making a Christmas punch bowl. For a refreshing drink that everyone can enjoy, try the following punch recipe. Take 2 litres of Cranberry Juice, 700ml of Pomegranate Juice, 500ml of Orange Juice, the juice of 2 Limes, then slice 3 limes, 3 oranges, add 100g of cranberries and seeds from one pomegranate, and some mint leaves. And when ready to serve add ice, 1 bottle of Prosecco and 300ml of Vodka.

 

Setting the atmospheric mood is just as important as your food and drink options! If you are hosting your Christmas aperitif at a table, spread out your favourite tablecloth, and set out your best glasses and plates - this year we're going for an orange and pink theme. For something more casual, set up a big picnic rug and throw lots of pillows around. No matter where you are, add a pop of colour with flowers, and this year we're adding dried orange slices for a sustainable and cost efficient decoration. Candles and fairy-lights are always a good addition and without a doubt add the Christmas magic. Now that you're all ready, sit back and relax, eat lots of food, and enjoy the company of the ones you love!