If summer in Italy (and, increasingly, everywhere else) is about the aperitivo, then the winter in Italy is about the digestivo. Consumed after a meal, to aid digestion, this tradition can be indulged in whenever you wish but is particularly suited to the colder months, when we are all likely to eat meals that are a little heartier in order to keep the chill away.
Grappa and the Aosta Valley
One of the most famous digestivi in Italy also comes from one of the best destinations in Italy for a winter break: grappa from the Aosta Valley. The smallest region in Italy, ringed by the rugged and romantic snow-capped peaks of the Alps, and dotted with adorable towns and ski resorts, this is the perfect place to escape to for magical winter scenery, charming Christmas markets, delicious and warming meals, and some of the best grappa in the world. Just browse our incredible range of holiday rentals in Aosta Valley and come experience this winter wonderland for yourself!
What is grappa?
Made from pomace, the skins, pulp, seeds, and other elements left of grapes after they have been pressed for winemaking, the drink traces its origins to being thrifty, making the most of what you have, and not wasting anything, as so much of the best of Italian cuisine does. Usually served after dinner, grappa can also be served after dinner with coffee – either as a caffè corretto, or “corrected" coffee, where it is mixed into an espresso, or as an ammazzacaffè, where an espresso is consumed separately first before being chased by a few ounces of grappa served in another glass.
What makes grappa unique?
This strong alcohol – usually coming it at 37.5 to 60 percent alcohol by volume – was played around with in the 1960s in order to improve its quality, making it a delight in its own right and not merely a zero-waste addition to the wine-making process. Today, it is a protected term that must adhere to geographical confines, production methods, and standards of quality and there is a wide range of high-quality examples to be sampled from all over Italy. However, those who find a vacation rental in Aosta Valley will be able to sample some of the finest grappa in the country. Due to the cool autumn climate and late harvests, flavour coming from herbs, fruits, honey, and spice, strict regional regulation, and strong family traditions, the grappa from this region is very special indeed!
How is grappa best enjoyed?
Of course, grappa is a perfect digestivo after a hearty meal of Aosta Valley winter warmers but it is truly best enjoyed after a day on the slopes at one of our ski holiday rentals in Italy. Whether you’re a beginner who is learning for the first time and looking to chase any chill away upon returning indoors or you are a seasoned winter sports enthusiast who loves to enjoy the après ski lifestyle as well as the sports themselves, a glass of grappa is the perfect way to toast the day. And if you’ve been mostly enjoying the snowy scenery from the comfort and safety of toasty interiors, we still think it’s a great way to cap off a day on vacation in the Aosta Valley!
