December 5th marks National Repeal Day, the celebration of the day Prohibition ended in 1933. It’s a day to toast the return of legal drinking and reflect on the cultural significance of alcohol in our lives. For Italians, this isn’t just a day for generic cheers—it’s a chance to honor the deeply ingrained traditions surrounding food, drink, and festivity, especially during the holidays.
What Was Prohibition?
Prohibition, spanning from 1920 to 1933, was a time when the U.S. government outlawed the production, sale, and transportation of alcohol. For Italian Americans, this period was a unique challenge. Wine, a staple at every family meal and a symbol of community, was suddenly illegal. Yet, Italians persevered, with many families making their own wine at home—often secretly crushing grapes in basements or backyards.
National Repeal Day celebrates the lifting of this ban, restoring the freedom to enjoy spirits, wine, and beer openly. For Italians, this was more than a legal victory; it was the restoration of a weekly, sometimes nightly tradition.
The Italian Holiday Connection
As the holidays approach, Italians naturally incorporate their love of wine and spirits into the season’s celebrations. From elaborate feasts to small gatherings, drinks are chosen with care, reflecting the spirit of the occasion.
Here are a few Italian traditions and the drinks that make them special:
1. Feast of the Seven Fishes
On Christmas Eve, many Italian families indulge in the Feast of the Seven Fishes, a meal featuring multiple courses of seafood. What pairs beautifully with this tradition? A crisp Prosecco or a light Pinot Grigio to complement the delicate flavors of the dishes.
2. Holiday Toasts with Limoncello
No Italian holiday is complete without a digestive to cap off the evening. Limoncello, with its bright, zesty lemon flavor, brings a refreshing end to rich meals. Its sweetness also makes it a perfect accompaniment to holiday desserts.
3. Panettone and Vin Santo
The iconic Italian holiday dessert, Panettone, is often served with Vin Santo, a golden dessert wine. The nutty, caramelized notes of Vin Santo perfectly highlight the candied fruits and soft texture of Panettone.
4. A Sip of Amaro
During the colder months, Italians turn to Amaro, a bittersweet herbal liqueur that warms the soul. Whether enjoyed neat or in cocktails, Amaro provides a rich, comforting taste of tradition.
What to Drink on National Repeal Day
National Repeal Day invites us to raise a glass to our favorite drinks and explore new ones. At Arthur Cantina Wine & Liquor, we recommend celebrating with these Italian staples:
• Chianti Classico: A robust red wine perfect for hearty winter dishes.
• Aperol Spritz: A festive cocktail that’s both bitter and sweet, perfect for a holiday toast.
• Grappa: For the adventurous drinker, this distilled grape spirit is a quintessential Italian after-dinner drink.
Celebrate with Us
At Arthur Cantina, we honor both the spirit of National Repeal Day and the traditions that make Italian holidays special. Explore our selection of authentic Italian wines, Amaros, and holiday staples to bring a touch of Italy to your celebrations.
Let’s raise a glass this December 5th—not just to the end of Prohibition, but to the enduring joy that wine and spirits bring to our tables, our traditions, and our lives.
Cheers to freedom and family!
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