Caperitif, a forgotten aperitif from South Africa, is back after 100 years.

caperitif~ the next best thing to Gin. 

Drinking aperitifs can be a diverting hobby. You'll learn geography, culture, history, folklore and botany, all in one glass. Take for example, Caperitif, a forgotten aperitif from Swartland, South Africa, north of Capetown.

By the end of the 20th century, Caperitif had become a ghost ingredient in classic cocktail recipes. What was this mysterious ‘Cape Aperitif’ that was referenced in that classic cocktail bible from the late 1800’s, the Savoy Cocktail Book?

This question asked by an adventurous Danish mixologist lead to a meeting with a maverick South African winemaker and the rebirth of South Africa’s once-famous vermouth. Caperitif is handcrafted by infusing Chenin Blanc with the flavours and aromas of some 35 natural botanicals, many of which are unique to the insane biodiversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom in South Africa. 

Caperitif is a fortified and aromatized wine similar to vermouth, made bitter with cinchona bark, a major ingredient in tonic water. Like its European cousins Lillet and quinquina, it's a near perfect aperitif — at once deeply fruity and herbal, sweet and bitter but not too, with aromas of citrus, cola and tea. Characterised with a selection of some 35 natural botanicals, including Fynbos, Kalmoes and Naartjie. 

Combine 1 part gin, 1 part Caperitif, top with your favorite tonic water and toast to mama Africa.