Get Low!
In a world where we are often forced to commit to all or nothing (vegan or paleo, anyone?), low-alcohol spirits are a nice compromise between a boozy Manhattan and seltzer with lime. And if this sounds good to you, you’re not alone — this category is gaining traction in the marketplace. On the heels of the rocketing popularity of aperitif and amaros (think Lillet or Aperol), which usually clock in below 20% ABV (less than half of what a gin or vodka might be, for example), there are host of fun new brands and flavors to check out.
The aperitif tradition is wide and varied in Europe, with examples running the full spectrum from sweet and light to bitter and spicy. There are some made from walnuts, citrus peel — even artichoke. The common thread through all of these aperitifs is a unique botanical blend. Those with gentian root may be more on the bitter side, citrus peel can add brightness and acidity, and some have a strong floral aroma from roses.
The simplest way to enjoy many of them is by adding club soda or seltzer and an orange or lime twist — a super easy low alcohol highball. But if you look for similar flavors, you might consider subbing them in for regular spirits to bring down the alcohol of a mixed drink or cocktail. A lime flavor might go great in margarita, for example — and it would be less boozy than the regular version.
Here are some of our favorites:
MOMMENPOP
Standout winemaker Samantha Sheehan has been making Napa Valley Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wine under the Poe label, but she’s recently branched out into this new line of vermouth. Done up with super-cute retro styling, this is definitely not your grandma’s cooking vermouth. With three delicious flavors, including grapefruit, blood orange and orange, the line makes use of homegrown ingredients, like organic California citrus and Napa Valley brandy for a zippy bright flavor. mommenpop.com
ORTOLAN ROSOLIO
Based off an aperitif found in Torino, Italy, this Sonoma-based amaro is made with over 40 different types of rose petals, all grown sustainably in California. Some add notes of jasmine while others skew more appley, but the result is a beautifully balanced and bright aperitif that can be used as an amaro in cocktails or sipped on its own. It clocks in at 27% ABV — a little higher than some amaro, but still well below vodka and gin, but still perfect for a midday garden party or sunset pau hana. For a fun party trick, the color of the drink will change from amber to bright pink when you add a squeeze of lime or something acidic. ortolanrosolio.com
HAUS SPIRITS
These stylish aperitifs come in a creative range of flavors, including Lemon Lavender, Grapefruit Jalapeño, Spiced Cherry and Ginger Yuzu. Try the New Fashioned, made with Saigon cinnamon, ginger and clove, either on the rocks or mixed with sparkling wine, or the Grapefruit Jalapeño as a substitute for Mezcal in a Paloma. If you’re feeling adventurous, splurge for their starter kit, which comes with six flavors of aperitif and a cocktail recipe book to help you get started. drink.haus
LO-FI SPIRITS
Made from California wine and natural herbs, this line of vermouth and amaro has a sleek modern label that wouldn’t be out of place in hipster Brooklyn bars. The Sweet Vermouth clocks in at 16.5 % ABV and has notes of rhubarb and cocoa and pairs well with Bourbon or soda water, while the Gentian Amaro is citrusy and just the right amount of bitter. You can use it in a Negroni for something full-strength, or an Americano (vermouth, amaro and soda water) for something lighter — or just add club soda and a slice of orange for an easy drinking, low alcohol pre-dinner drink. lofiaperitifs.com