The super-competitive aperitif category this year featured bold new interpretations of classic styles. From barrel-aged innovation to citrus-forward freshness, each finalist brought something unique to the table. Here’s a closer look at the top contenders.

Terrativo is a bold spirits project that blends bourbon’s depth with aperitivo tradition, distilling in unique locales and spotlighting local ingredients and terroir. Their Barrel‑Aged Bitter is a first-of-its-kind bourbon-based aperitivo aged in oak barrels. It layers tart cherry, bitter orange, rhubarb, hibiscus, and warming spices, creating a fresh, bitter, and slightly sweet release that redefines the category.

Marie Brizard is an iconic liqueur house celebrated for its pioneering spirit and clean, expressive flavors made from 100% natural extracts. Their new Aperitivo blends over 30 botanicals, including wormwood, bay, basil, thyme, and citrus, plus cherry and apple distillates. It’s a modern twist on classic bitters, crafted to stand alone on ice or shine in cocktails.

Inspired by Dr. Henry Perrine’s introduction of the key lime, this bright green aperitivo features New England-malted barley distilled and infused with roots, herbs, and vibrant key limes.

These three finalists showcase the thrilling evolution of the aperitif category—from bourbon-based innovation, to botanical complexity, to citrus-driven freshness. Each bottle captures a unique spirit of place and creativity. The winner of Best Aperitif will be announced at the Top Shelf 2025 Awards Gala, where the industry will celebrate excellence across the spirits world.