BEFORE THE MEAL – APÉRITIFS

The conventional apéritif wines are either sparkling (epitomized by Champagne) or fortified (epitomized by Sherry in Britain, Port in France, vermouth in Italy, etc.). A glass of table wine

Before eating is an alternative. Warning Avoid peanuts – they destroy wine flavors. Olives are

Too piquant for many wines, especially Champagne; they need Sherry or a Martini. Eat almonds, pistachios, cashews, or walnuts, plain crisps or cheese straws instead