Sanbitter is the natural non alcoholic pre dinner drink. It is for the more sophisticated palate. Sanbitter is recommended chilled or served over ice with orange juice or soda water.

Gonzalez Byass is one of the few bodegas remaining that are still in the hands of the original families. Why this matters it that they are traditionalists having worked together for many generations – their fino is a mark of their family. Fortunate for us, they continue to make classic sherries such as Tio Pepe whether or not they are "cost effective." Tio Pepe is a classic aperitif wine, which in Andalucía is also served with the meal. If you ever want to catch the essence of traditional Andalucía, a copa of Tio Pepe will transport you back to a finer time.

A sweet, fortified apéritif made in France's Cognac region by adding cognac to unfermented grape juice to halt any fermentation activity. The result is sweet (12 to 15 percent residual sugar) and potent (from 16 to 22 percent alcohol). Pineau des Charentes can be found in white, rosé, and red versions. Because it's made with cognac instead of a neutral alcoholic spirit it's not classified as a vin doux naturel but rather as a vin de liqueur Pineau des Charentes is similar to the ratafia from the Champagne region and the floc de Gascogne from the armagnac region, although it is better known than either. All are drunk chilled or on ice.