Select Aperitivo

Venetian aperitivo from Venice, created in 1920. Bitter-juicy profile with rhubarb and juniper. Essential in the Spritz Originale, the original Venetian spritz recipe. Select Aperitivo represents the authentic Venetian spritz tradition, with its bitter-juicy character and historical connection to Venice's aperitivo culture.

Select Aperitivo was created in 1920 by the Pilla family in Venice, who developed the recipe as a Venetian aperitivo. The aperitivo was designed to be used in the Spritz Originale—the original Venetian spritz recipe that predates the modern Aperol Spritz. Select's recipe combined rhubarb and juniper with other botanicals to create a distinctive bitter-juicy profile that worked perfectly in the spritz format. The brand maintained a regional focus for decades, with Select being particularly popular in Venice and the Veneto region, where it was appreciated for its authentic connection to Venetian spritz culture. The aperitivo's historical significance grew as the spritz became popular internationally, with enthusiasts seeking the original Venetian recipe. Today, Select Aperitivo is produced by Gruppo Montenegro (part of Gruppo Campari), though production continues in Italy, preserving the aperitivo's Venetian heritage. Select has gained recognition among spritz enthusiasts who appreciate its authentic connection to the original Venetian spritz tradition and its distinctive bitter-juicy profile.

Select Aperitivo production follows the original 1920 recipe, which combines rhubarb and juniper with other botanicals. The exact recipe remains secret, but the process emphasizes the extraction of rhubarb's tart, juicy character and juniper's aromatic, slightly bitter notes. The botanicals are macerated in a neutral spirit base for varying periods, allowing the alcohol to extract flavors and aromas. After maceration, the liquid is filtered and sweetened, creating the characteristic bitter-juicy profile. The final product is bottled at 17% ABV, making it slightly stronger than Aperol but still light enough for extended social drinking. The production process emphasizes the rhubarb and juniper character, creating an aperitivo with a distinctive bitter-juicy profile that works excellently in spritz cocktails. The result is an aperitivo that represents the authentic Venetian spritz tradition, with its bitter-juicy character and historical connection to Venice's aperitivo culture.

Select Aperitivo represents the authentic Venetian spritz tradition, embodying the original recipe and character of the Spritz Originale. It is enjoyed by enthusiasts seeking the authentic Venetian spritz experience, with its bitter-juicy profile and historical connection to Venice's aperitivo culture. Select's role in preserving the original spritz recipe makes it significant for those interested in the history and evolution of Italian aperitivo culture. The aperitivo is often featured in bars and restaurants that emphasize authentic Italian traditions, where it serves as both a drink and a connection to Venice's aperitivo heritage.