The adage “we eat first with our eyes” is said to have been coined by the ancient foodie Marcus Gavius Apicius.
Cocktails the way we think of them today were most definitely not around in the reign of Tiberius. Had they been, the Aperol Spritz would have been proof of the theorem. Bitter, brisk, bubbly, and bright orange, it sends a tingle to your taste buds at first sight.
On first sip, it refreshes and opens the palate, paving the way for a deceptively savory, bittersweet, and luscious swallow. Each sip repeats the ride full of flavor while remaining relatively restrained in alcohol by volume. Its hip hue and Old World pedigree made it the darling of the millennial brunch set, who find the brutish Mimosa the regrettable choice of their boomer parents.
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Lying Down and Vomiting Between Courses: This is How Ancient Romans Would Feast
Members of the Roman upper classes regularly indulged in lavish, hours-long feasts that served to broadcast their wealth and status in ways that eclipse our notions of a resplendent meal.
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Imagine, if you will, the most glorious festive feast, with an oversize turkey, stuffing two ways, holiday ham, the requisite fixings and at least half a dozen pies and cakes. That may all sound grand that is, until you consider the extravagant displays of the ancient Roman banquet.
Members of the Roman upper classes regularly indulged in lavish, hours-long feasts that served to broadcast their wealth and status in ways that eclipse our notions of a resplendent meal. Eating was the supreme act of civilisation and celebration of life, said Alberto Jori, professor of ancient philosophy at the University of Ferrara in Italy.