Cool Italian - Drinking

These contain some examples of vulgar language.

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Good wine is as much a part of Italian lifestyle as good food is. Italians are proud of their winemaking successes such as Chianti, Pinot Grigio and Brunello di Montalcino, just a few of the many wines known around the world.
Socialising in Italy mainly happens around the table and a successful evening is often determined by the quality of the alcohol as much as by the company and the grub.
Generally Italians consume wine with any meal but if it's pizza, beer seems to be the preferred choice.
Beer drinking has increased with the new pub trend in Italy. Look-alike British pubs have appeared all over the country with only one difference, you get served at the table by waiters and waitresses.
In the northern part of the country, boozing starts in the morning. Some people, in order to fight the cold, start the day with a Grappa in their coffee.
Evenings begin with an aperitif which can be a Prosecco or an alcoholic orange looking drink. A respectable aperitif always comes with lots of yummy, fun-looking food.
Wine accompanies dinner and spirits are a must after the evening meal with the excuse that they help the digestion.

Click here for a transcript of all the expressions in "Drinking".