Alcohol-free aperitifs

What exactly is an alcohol-free aperitif?

An aperitif (from the Latin *aperire*, meaning "to open") is traditionally a light, often tart or bitter drink served before a meal to stimulate the appetite. An alcohol-free aperitif retains this ritual and complex flavor, but omits the alcohol.

Unlike simple juices or sodas, modern non-alcoholic aperitifs are complex flavor alternatives to their alcoholic counterparts. They often consist of distilled plant extracts, herbs, spices, barks, or citrus zest. Inspired by alcoholic products, they create multifaceted bitter and sweet notes and a well-balanced taste.

This diverse range of aromas, from juniper and gentian to raspberry, makes them the ideal partner for mixers like tonic water, sparkling wine alternatives, or soda. They are not just a thirst quencher, but the basis for lighthearted, sophisticated cocktails and spritz variations.

What do Polly's alcohol-free aperitifs taste like?

At POLLY, we focus on fully recreating the most well-known and popular aperitif profiles. Our products are made from high-quality extracts and distillates to guarantee an authentic taste experience.

POLLY Italian Aperitif is inspired by classic Italian bitter aperitifs. It is characterized by its intensely bittersweet orange and tart notes of gentian . Perfect as a base for a non-alcoholic spritz.

Our POLLY Amaretto aperitif was inspired by the taste of traditional almond liqueur. Warm aromas of apricot and vanilla dominate, creating a sweet, velvety experience.

The POLLY French Aperitif is inspired by French vermouth and offers an elegant sweetness combined with fruity notes of orange and a subtle spiciness from the wormwood herb.

The POLLY Citrus Aperitif delivers an explosion of yuzu and plum notes and provides an invigorating, refreshing aftertaste.

In addition, POLLY Pink Aperitif offers a sugar-free and vibrantly colored version of the aperitif. It impresses with a fruity and tangy raspberry flavor and a floral hibiscus note . Ideal for those who prefer something lighter and more colorful.

Which alcohol-free aperitif is suitable for which occasion?

Choosing the right aperitif depends on the season and the desired feeling. We have suitable recommendations and recipes for every season that will delight your guests.

Non-alcoholic aperitifs for the summer

Summer calls for lightness, vibrancy, and plenty of ice cream . Citrusy and slightly tart flavors are in demand, perfect for pool parties, barbecues, and balmy evenings on the patio.

Our recommendation: POLLY Italian Aperitif and POLLY Citrus Aperitif .

• POLLY Italian Aperitif unfolds its full potential when combined with POLLY Sparkling Blanc (a sparkling wine alternative) or tonic water. The result is the perfect summer drink, a must-have at any pool party.

Combine POLLY Citrus Aperitif with White Peach Lemonade. Refreshing, fruity and slightly sweet, the aperitif unfolds its full aroma.

Non-alcoholic aperitifs for winter

During the winter months and holidays , rich, sweet, and comforting profiles reminiscent of dessert and Christmas aromas are in demand. These are also excellent as a digestif.

Our recommendation: POLLY Amaretto Aperitif .

• The Amaretto aperitif, with its vanilla and apricot flavor, is the ideal companion for the cold season. It can be served neat over ice after a meal or shine in warm drinks (e.g., in coffee or as a non-alcoholic Amaretto Sour).

Non-alcoholic aperitifs for autumn

As the days grow shorter and the colors warmer, we seek flavors that are earthy, spicy, and gently warming , but not too heavy. It's the season for convivial evenings.

Our recommendation: POLLY French Aperitif .

The French aperitif , with its orange and vermouth notes, is ideal. Mixed with wild berry lemonade or a splash of ginger ale, it makes an elegant drink that perfectly reflects the flavors of autumn.

Non-alcoholic aperitifs for spring

Spring represents freshness, light sweetness, and invigorating aromas . After the harsh winter months, we long for carefree elegance and the scent of blooming herbs.

Our recommendation: POLLY Pink Aperitif

The Pink Aperitif is perfect for enjoying on the balcony. Its floral and berry notes (e.g., with a splash of sparkling wine alternative) are as light and carefree as the season itself.

Non-alcoholic aperitifs for Christmas

The Christmas season is characterized by warmth, rich spices, and festive sweetness . The aperitif is meant not only to stimulate the appetite but also to convey a sense of coziness.

Our recommendation: POLLY Amaretto Aperitif .

• Amaretto aperitif is perfect for the holidays. Its warm aromas of vanilla and apricot ideally complement cookies and festive menus. It can be served neat or on ice as a digestif, or in festive, lightly spiced mocktails.

Non-alcoholic aperitifs for New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve calls for glamour, sparkle, and festive elegance . The aperitif must serve as the perfect start to a long night of partying and should harmonize well with champagne alternatives.

Our recommendation: POLLY Italian Aperitif or POLLY Pink Aperitif .

The Italian Aperitif makes a classic, festive Spritz, ideal for toasting. Alternatively, the Pink Aperitif adds a glamorous color and a fruity-floral note to the glass. Combined with POLLY Sparkling Blanc, the perfect New Year's Eve drink is guaranteed.

What is the best way to mix non-alcoholic aperitifs?

The versatility of our aperitifs makes them the ideal partner for a wide range of mixers. The best mix depends on the desired flavor profile – whether you prefer it dry, sparkling, or sweet.

You can also mix various cocktails, long drinks, or spritzers. Check out our page with non-alcoholic cocktail recipes for inspiration and ideas. There are no limits to your creativity!