Che cosa vuoi da bere?
Beverages to accompany Italian food are an important part of the meal experience. There are different types of beverages for different stages of the meals.
Pre-Meal
The aperitivo beverage is used to prepare the palate for what is to come. Typically it would consist of a spritz (wine and soda), or soda mixed with a bitter. Limincello is a common example of an apertivo.
During the meal
Still or sparkling water and wine are served. Sunset Magazine online provides some starter information for pairing Italian wines with various 1st and 2nd course dishes.
During Dessert
Italian coffee plays a major role during the dessert course. Most often, a strong espresso would be served. Cappuccino and Latte would more likely be reserved for breakfast or mid-day.
At Meal Completion
The bitters digestives, close out the meal, with the aim of soothing and aiding digestion, according to Italian food lore. The Italian nut-based liqueurs (e.g., Amaretto, Frangelico) or the anise-based Sambuca could also be served here.
Cocktails
When socializing after a delicious Italian food meal, cocktails may play a role. You can checkout what the Cellar Tours website considers to be 10 Iconic Italian cocktails (e.g,. Negroni, Rossini, Bellini, etc.)
A Non-Meal Specialty
Anytime Italian sodas are non-alcoholic and are enjoyed throughout the day, but would not typically be served with a full course Italian food meal.
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Aperitivi (Aperitifs)
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Vino (Wines)
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Coffees
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Bitters Digestives (Digestivi) & Liqueurs
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Sodas
