Review: Atost California Aperitif

Like so many stories, Atost was launched during the pandemic of 2020 by two California natives, Cindy and Kyle Pressman. Cindy’s grandparents, agave farmers migrated from Mexico to work in the citrus fields of California. The Pressmans wished to create a product that would celebrate their hometown of Ventura, California but also honor Cindy’s heritage and the bounty of coastal California’s orchards. Both enjoy imbibing and wanted to create a drink that merged both of their preferred beverages of choice, wine and spirits. With this inspiration, together they created a West Coast take on a European classic, the American Apéritif Atost.

The Pressmans source fruits and botanicals like oranges, strawberries, and roses from local farms and infuse California grappa (a clear grape-based distillate). They hand zest, chop, and blend the fruits before infusing in a grape spirit and wine base in stainless steel tanks. After the infusion process they add cane sugar before bottling.

Atost California Aperitif Review

The result is a deep ruby red, bittersweet, and herbaceous beverage. The aroma is subdued, which makes the initial flavors a bit shocking initially. The bitterness hits the palate first with a distinct dryness. At first it seems as though it might be too bitter. The fruit flavors came to the party rather quickly which offset the bitterness. On the next sip this drink became tangy and sweet with upfront herbal notes that are distinctive. The mouthfeel is light and crisp which was unexpected due to the color but rather welcoming creating a refreshing sip.

After sampling Atost neat, I tried it over ice which brought out the herbal flavors even more. I would suggest trying it both ways to see how you prefer the flavors. Then I built the Atost Spritz per the brand’s recipe.

Atost Spritz
2 oz Atost California Aperitif
4 oz chilled sparkling rosé
Fresh orange slice, one strawberry sliced

Fill a large wine glass with cubed ice and add all ingredients. Give the liquid a quick stir before sipping.

This aperitif was an excellent ingredient for a spritz. The rosé softened the bitterness and created a fantastic mix of flavors. I also tried Atost in a Negroni and it made a great cocktail with a lighter profile. Give Atost a try if you’re looking for a unique perspective on the classic ruby aperitif at a reasonable price.

36 proof.

A- / $28 / atost.co

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