Vermouth…it’s the ingredient that makes a Martini a Martini and a Manhattan a Manhattan, right? I know that it’s in there but what exactly is it? Let’s learn about this classic elixir.
Vermouth is actually a fortified wine! Yes, it’s made from wine grapes. There’s a few more ingredients mixed in but essentially, it’s in the wine family.
Generally, Vermouth is made from wine grapes, herbs & spices, sugar, and alcohol (usually brandy). Typical ingredients used to create this interesting liquor: bitters, citrus, herbs (juniper, lavender, oregano, chamomile), and spices (clove, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg). It may even have a mention on the label “made from XX botanicals”. It is higher in alcohol (16-22% ABV) and was originally used for medicinal purposes. As a lot of alcoholic beverages were in the day.
Vermouth can range from bone dry to very sweet. This range of flavor and sweetness make it a very eclectic libation. You’ll need to explore the varieties to find your favorite one.
Vermouth comes in two variations: dry and sweet.
- Dry Vermouth is typically clear to light yellow in color. It was created in France in the 1800’s by Joseph Noilly. Dry Vermouth is designated as “dry” because it has 5% sugar or less. They are light bodied with low tannins and can be drunk as an aperitif or used as a mixer for a classic dry martini.
- Sweet Vermouth is light red/brown to dark red/brown in color. It was developed in Italy in the late 1700’s by Antonio Benedetto Carpano. The sweetness of this Vermouth can vary but it is known for being on the sweeter side (15% sugar) with notes of vanilla, herbs, and spices. This variation is medium bodied with some tannins. Sweet Vermouth is a nice aperitif on its own or due to its sweet profile, it pairs well with dark liquors such bourbon whiskey, and brandy.
*Sweet Vermouth also comes in a white version: Blanco or Bianco
There are lots of brand names in the Vermouth realm so try some out and see which ones you like best. If you are making a particular cocktail, the choice is easy. Vermouth should be refrigerated after opening and will keep its flavor profile up to one month.
Vermouth as an aperitif should be poured in 3-ounce pours. It should be served chilled in a cocktail glass or over an ice cube in a tumbler. Add a twist of lemon (dry) or orange (sweet) to bring out the flavor of the Vermouth. For some fun, do a tasting in small aperitif glasses with a range of colors and styles. A Vermouth tasting would be a great way to add some fun and enhance a Martini/Manhattan party!
Here are a couple of recipes for a Classic Martini and a Classic Manhattan.
Classic Martini
2 ½ ounces of gin or vodka
½ ounce of dry Vermouth
Twist of lemon or olive to garnish
- Add gin or vodka and dry Vermouth into a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice
- Shake or stir vigorously
- Strain into a martini glass
- Garnish with lemon twist or olive & serve
Classic Manhattan
2 ounces of bourbon whiskey
1 ounce sweet Vermouth
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Maraschino or Brandied cherries to garnish
- Add bourbon whiskey, sweet Vermouth, and bitters into a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice
- Shake or stir
- Strain into a cocktail tumbler
- Garnish with cherries & serve
Have some fun exploring the interesting world of Vermouth. It’s a classic!
Cheers!