The Mediterranean Aperitivo Project Embarks on U.S. Tour

The Mediterranean Aperitivo Campaign Brings European Culinary Heritage to the U.S.

Over the past three years, the Mediterranean Aperitivo campaign, funded by the European Union to promote European Quality Products, has delivered a rich cultural and culinary experience to food and beverage professionals across the United States. Through seminars, tastings, trade shows, and restaurant events, the campaign has traveled to cities like Tulsa, El Paso, Houston, Austin, Miami, and New York.

Each event featured a prominent local or national food and beverage educator who led tastings and hosted seminars highlighting the Mediterranean Aperitivo and its iconic ingredients. Derived from the Latin word for "open," the aperitivo tradition is designed to "open" the meal and stimulate the appetite. While its origins trace back to a simple glass of aromatized wine or bitters before dinner in post-war France, the Mediterranean Aperitivo has evolved into a vibrant, youth-driven culinary culture across Europe.

From northern Spain to southern Italy, the aperitivo experience has become an essential part of the modern European food scene. With the rise of American tourism and professional interest in Europe, the Mediterranean Aperitivo concept has been embraced and adapted in the U.S., championing high-quality products safeguarded by European Union PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) and PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) seals.

Highlighted Products

The campaign introduced attendees to a selection of premium European ingredients that embody the Mediterranean Aperitivo spirit:

• Vermouth di Torino PGI: Italy’s pinnacle of vermouth craftsmanship, prized for its rich flavors.
• Pecorino Toscano PDO: Tuscany’s iconic sheep’s milk cheese, celebrated for its savory, salty profile.
• Costa d’Amalfi Lemons PGI: Renowned for their intense flavor, these lemons are perfect for garnishing aperitivo cocktails.
• Greek Aitoloakarnania and Ilia Olives: Ancient olive cultivars cherished for their delicate texture and bold flavors.

Engaging Professionals and Consumers

The events catered to a diverse audience, including food and beverage professionals, restaurant owners, sommeliers, mixologists, and enthusiastic consumers. Participants explored creative ways to enjoy Vermouth di Torino, whether in classic cocktails, served neat, or paired with Pecorino Toscano, Greek olives, and Amalfi lemons.

Seminars provided practical insights into proper storage, service techniques, and pairing options, showcasing how the Mediterranean Aperitivo can elevate both personal and professional dining experiences.

As the Mediterranean Aperitivo campaign continues to expand its reach, it fosters an appreciation for the authentic flavors and traditions of European cuisine while inspiring new culinary innovations in the U.S. food and beverage industry.