How are drinks classified: alcoholic and non-alcoholic, cold and hot
Drinks are grouped according to their alcohol content, temperature, and role in the meal, from aperitifs to digestifs.
The basic division separates alcoholic from non-alcoholic beverages, and also cold from hot. In relation to food, a distinction is made between aperitifs, which are taken before, and digestifs, which are served after.
Cold drinks include juices, ciders, lemonades, and syrups. Fruit and vegetable juices contain many valuable nutrients and are easy to prepare at home with fresh ingredients. Smoothies, blends that contain mostly fruits or vegetables, have become very popular and may include yogurt, nuts, or seeds. The richer, sweeter versions are often served as dessert.
In winter, hot drinks like tea, cocoa, or hot chocolate are ideal for warming up. Coffee is often chosen for gatherings with friends or for Sunday dessert, and in summer it's served iced for refreshment.
Separately, there is a group of medicinal drinks, including syrups and herbal juices, as well as probiotic dairy drinks containing special microorganisms, such as kefir. Alcoholic beverages include mixed drinks, cocktails, liqueurs, and wines, which accompany most celebrations.
