Apéritif

Primarily a drink to be enjoyed before a meal.
In general, the aperitif should stimulate the appetite and, on top of that, have a socially 'loosening up' effect.
An aperitif is sometimes accompanied by appetizing hors d'oeuvres.

Often a rather dry wine is served as an aperitif, in contrast to wines served with dessert, which are more sweet in nature. Champagne is a famous aperitif of the first class. With a nice Brut without vintage you are always right.