If there’s one thing the Spanish know how to do better than almost anyone, it’s turning an ordinary evening into a fiesta. The secret? Tapas and a little something to sip. At Terry’s, we’ve seen firsthand how a few small bites, a bottle of wine, and good company can transform a weeknight into something worth remembering. And the best part? You don’t need a reservation in Madrid to pull it off — you can create a Spanish-style aperitivo right at home.
What is an Aperitivo, Anyway?
An aperitivo is Spain’s version of the warm-up — a little food and drink before dinner that whets the appetite and sparks conversation. Think of it as the sweet spot between “I just got off work” and “Let’s sit down for dinner.” It’s casual, lively, and designed for sharing.
In Spain, aperitivo hour often means sliding into a bar for a quick glass of vermouth and a plate of olives. But at home, it can be as simple as a few curated bites and a bottle of wine that plays well with many flavors.
Step One: Build a Tapas Spread
Tapas aren’t about cooking for hours; they’re about assembling flavors. Start with a few classics:
- Spanish Olives — salty, briny, and addictive.
- Jamón Serrano or Chorizo Sarta — thinly sliced, no prep needed.
- Manchego Cheese — nutty, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser.
- Pan Tumaca — toasted bread rubbed with fresh tomato, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt.
From there, you can mix in one or two “hero” dishes:
- Croquetas de Cochinillo (suckling pig croquettes): Crispy, creamy, and utterly satisfying.
- Tortilla Española (potato omelette): Comfort food in a slice.
Tip: Don’t stress about perfection. Tapas are meant to feel rustic, unfussy, and welcoming.
Step Two: Pour the Right Drinks
The beauty of aperitivo drinks is their flexibility. You’re not looking for the “perfect pairing,” but something refreshing and social.
- Crisp White or Rosé Wines: Albariño, Verdejo, or our Wine of the Month — Schloss Gobelsburg Rosé — are all versatile and food-friendly.
- Light Reds: A young Rioja or Tempranillo brings fruit and spice without overpowering.
- Spritzes: A vermouth spritz or even a cava with tonic water adds bubbles and fun.
Pro tip: Serve wine at retail price from Terry’s cellar — because good wine tastes even better when it’s a bargain.
Step Three: Set the Vibe
Tapas culture is as much about mood as it is about food. Keep things casual but thoughtful:
- Use small plates so everyone can sample a bit of everything.
- Put on a Spanish playlist (think Buena Vista Social Club, Bossa nova, or a flamenco guitar backdrop).
- Keep the lighting warm — you’re aiming for cozy, not candlelit romance.
Most importantly, let the evening flow. Aperitivo is about grazing, chatting, and laughing — not rushing to the next course.
Why Tapas Work for Friends
Unlike a formal sit-down dinner, tapas encourage mingling. Everyone’s reaching across the table, sharing bites, and debating which wine pairs best with the Manchego. It feels communal, spontaneous, and — let’s be honest — a little more Instagram-worthy.
And here’s the thing: once your friends experience an aperitivo at your place, they’ll want to make it a ritual. Tapas night can be your group’s version of game night, but with way better snacks.
Terry’s Makes It Easy
At Terry’s, we stock everything you need to host your own aperitivo: olives, jamón, cheeses, and a cellar full of Spanish and European wines. Our bistro menu even doubles as inspiration — from tortilla española to paellas that can easily be scaled down for sharing at home.
✨ Hosting hack: Drop by one of our stores and pick up a ready-to-serve European Cheese & Charcuterie Platter. Add a bottle of Albariño and some pan tumaca, and your aperitivo is basically done.
Final Cheers
A Spanish-style aperitivo isn’t about showing off. It’s about slowing down, savoring, and remembering that sometimes the best dinners are the ones that start before the main course.
So text your friends, set out a few small plates, and raise a glass. Because tapas with friends isn’t just food — it’s a lifestyle. And it’s one we’re more than happy to share.
