We are having a group of friends to dinner this Sunday, working on a French theme in honor of our recent trip.

I want to serve some typical apertifs before dinner, not move right into wine like we normally do in America. I thought I would offer a kir royale (my favorite!) and one other choice. What other typical French apertifs would you suggest? In the spirit of Provence, does anyone know if Pastis is available in many US liquor stores? I don't know that people would necessarily enjoy it, but some might at least want to try it...

Kathy

How about Lillet?

I don't know about pastis, but I too love (!!) kir royales. You could always make them with different kinds of liquer so everyone could choose their favorite fruit (peche, framboise, mure (my favorite), cassis). That might be some variety.

You could always just go for good champagne. I never use the really good stuff for kir royales.

Sandra

Look for Pernod (a brand of pastis), I think you will be able to find it without a problem. I was able to get it in California when I lived there, as well as in NYC.

I think that Pastis is mostly served (with water and ice) in the summer as a refresher. But why not try? Some might like it!!

Diana

quote:

Originally posted by paradiso 28:
Look for Pernod (a brand of pastis), I think you will be able to find it without a problem. I was able to get it in California when I lived there, as well as in NYC.

I think that Pastis is mostly served (with water and ice) in the summer as a refresher. But why not try? Some might like it!!

Diana

Yes you can get Pernod everywhere I think, I know you can get it here in Seattle. Its yummy, its sounds kind of weird I know but when I lived in England they served it on ice with a splash of blackcurrant cordial, it was really good.

Another vote for Lillet.

I'll cast my vote for Lillet as well. Chilled, it offers a nice finish to a meal.

Thanks everyone...

I've never heard of Lillet. Can anyone describe what it's like?

Kathy

It's flowery and light. Like a sweet vermouth, but without the sour finish. Served chilled. I don't much care for anisette drinks, and some people can't handle bubbles, so a Lillet might be a nice option. You can probably get it easily at a large liquor store. Around here, it's about 15 bucks a bottle.

Here it is. I'll bet you can get it over the internet if you can't get it locally.