Atōst California Aperitif, California NV
Founded in 2020 by Kyle and Kaitlyn Newsom in Ventura County, atōst brings a California sensibility to the classic aperitif. Their inspiration comes from the European afternoon spritz tradition, reimagined with a focus on real fruit, botanicals, and the fresh, sunny flavors of California. The name “atōst” is a nod to the Norwegian word for “to toast,” reflecting both the founders’ Scandinavian heritage and the communal spirit of the aperitif hour.
WINEMAKER: Kyle Newsom
FARMING: Sustainably farmed California grapes (specific grower details and certification status not listed)
VARIETY: Primarily California white wine (exact varieties undisclosed), infused with whole orange, grapefruit, gentian root, and a proprietary blend of natural botanicals
TERROIR: Grapes are sourced from warm, coastal sites in Ventura County and select California vineyards, chosen for aromatic brightness and freshness in the base wine
VINIFICATION: Crafted in small batches. The wine base is blended with hand-prepared whole citrus (not extracts), gentian root for bitterness, and natural herbs and spices. No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Lower alcohol (typically 21% ABV or less), gluten-free, and vegan.
AGING: Bottled young to preserve aromatic lift and natural color; no extended aging
TASTING NOTES: Aromas of fresh orange peel, grapefruit, and wildflowers. The palate is lively and bittersweet, opening with bright citrus and ripe stone fruit, then evolving into gentle herbal notes, a balanced touch of sweetness, and a dry, refreshing finish with light bitterness.
FOOD PAIRINGS: Perfect for aperitivo hour—cheese boards, tinned fish, olives, charcuterie, summer salads, or light appetizers. Also excellent as a cocktail mixer: try it in a spritz, white negroni, or with tonic and citrus.
SCORES:
EXTRA CONTEXT:
-
atōst is designed for social, outdoor sipping—serve chilled, on its own, with soda, or in cocktails.
-
Each release is a small batch, with seasonal limited editions.
-
Lower in alcohol than classic spirits-based aperitifs, making it a sessionable, modern alternative.
-
The “to toast” meaning in Norwegian captures both the social and celebratory intent behind every bottle.
Atōst California Aperitif, California NV
Founded in 2020 by Kyle and Kaitlyn Newsom in Ventura County, atōst brings a California sensibility to the classic aperitif. Their inspiration comes from the European afternoon spritz tradition, reimagined with a focus on real fruit, botanicals, and the fresh, sunny flavors of California. The name “atōst” is a nod to the Norwegian word for “to toast,” reflecting both the founders’ Scandinavian heritage and the communal spirit of the aperitif hour.
WINEMAKER: Kyle Newsom
FARMING: Sustainably farmed California grapes (specific grower details and certification status not listed)
VARIETY: Primarily California white wine (exact varieties undisclosed), infused with whole orange, grapefruit, gentian root, and a proprietary blend of natural botanicals
TERROIR: Grapes are sourced from warm, coastal sites in Ventura County and select California vineyards, chosen for aromatic brightness and freshness in the base wine
VINIFICATION: Crafted in small batches. The wine base is blended with hand-prepared whole citrus (not extracts), gentian root for bitterness, and natural herbs and spices. No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Lower alcohol (typically 21% ABV or less), gluten-free, and vegan.
AGING: Bottled young to preserve aromatic lift and natural color; no extended aging
TASTING NOTES: Aromas of fresh orange peel, grapefruit, and wildflowers. The palate is lively and bittersweet, opening with bright citrus and ripe stone fruit, then evolving into gentle herbal notes, a balanced touch of sweetness, and a dry, refreshing finish with light bitterness.
FOOD PAIRINGS: Perfect for aperitivo hour—cheese boards, tinned fish, olives, charcuterie, summer salads, or light appetizers. Also excellent as a cocktail mixer: try it in a spritz, white negroni, or with tonic and citrus.
SCORES:
EXTRA CONTEXT:
-
atōst is designed for social, outdoor sipping—serve chilled, on its own, with soda, or in cocktails.
-
Each release is a small batch, with seasonal limited editions.
-
Lower in alcohol than classic spirits-based aperitifs, making it a sessionable, modern alternative.
-
The “to toast” meaning in Norwegian captures both the social and celebratory intent behind every bottle.