What do call a drink before a formal dinner?

An apéritif is an alcoholic beverage usually served before a meal to stimulate the appetite. Common choices for an apéritif are vermouth, champagne, fino, amontillado (or other styles of sherry) and any still, dry, light white wine.

"Apéritif" may also refer to a snack that precedes a meal. This includes an amuse-bouche, such as crackers, cheese, pâté or olives.

"Apéritif" is a French Word derived from the Latin verb aperire, which means "to open."