Latin 'aperire' what 'open' means. Although alcohol is not really lust opens you should definitely avoid sweet taste, because they completely inhibit appetite and taste weaken.
The function of aperitifs must be sought elsewhere. It refers rather to use aspects of friendship, sociability, affection, enjoy together. An aperitif serves as a starting point, the "affection" between the guests to open and sometimes merely as padding between the time finally come together and start eating. The aperitif should however awaken your taste buds and culinary attention. This makes an aperitif so special.