Tales of the Cocktail® New Orleans 2016

Some call it an aperitif. Some call it an aperitivo. And some people just like to have a drink before dinner. Whatever you call it, the aperitif has been enjoying a resurgence in popularity around the world. But what is an aperitif? Where did it come from, and how can bartenders perfect aperitifs of their own? And is it a drink, or more a way of life? We will explore the historical roots of the aperitivo, explore how France, Italy and other European countries have put their unique twist on the category, and showcase some of the finest aperitifs from the Old and New Worlds. Join our stimulating panel of aperitif experts Carina Soto Velasquez of Mary Celeste, which has helped put the aperitif cocktail back in fashion in Paris, Daniele Gentili of ‘aperitif embassy’ Bar8 in London, Naren Young of New York City’s pioneering Caffe Dante, and ‘aperitif aficionado’ Camille Vidal, for an in depth discussion of this tradition from yesterday to today. Attendees will learn how the aperitif has evolved, the role that food plays in aperitif service, and how the growing trend among cocktail lovers for ‘low proof’ drinks makes this the perfect moment for bartenders to master the art of the aperitif.