In France, just before noon or in the evening just before you sit down to eat, it's 'apéritif' time - a sacred ritual, a way of life.
Apéritif is a special moment combining drinks, snacks before the meal, a good time with friends chatting and relaxing. It's a moment of conviviability and ode to local specialities.
No apéritif is like another - hosts use their imagination.
I'll shut my eyes, remember my last summer's apéritifs in Provence: sun, friends, a sip of pastis, tapenade, a slice of saucisson, long discussions, laughter ... a moment of pure happiness ..
Santé!