WHAT IS VERMOUTH?

Vermouth is an aromatized fortified wine, flavored with botanicals and fortified with spirits, serving as both an aperitif and an essential ingredient in countless classic cocktails. The name derives from the German word 'Wermut', meaning wormwood, a key botanical in traditional recipes.

Production begins with a base wine, which is fortified with neutral spirit to increase its alcohol content and stability. The wine is then infused with a carefully guarded blend of botanicals, which can include roots, barks, flowers, seeds, and herbs. Each producer maintains their own secret recipe.

The two main styles are sweet (red or rosso) vermouth and dry (white) vermouth, though modern producers have expanded the category to include rosé, amber, and other variations. Sweet vermouth originated in Turin, Italy, while dry vermouth has its roots in France, particularly the town of Chambéry.

Vermouth's role in cocktail culture cannot be overstated. It's essential in the Martini, Manhattan, Negroni, and countless other classics. The quality and style of vermouth used can dramatically affect the final cocktail, making it a crucial ingredient rather than a mere modifier.

Once opened, vermouth should be refrigerated and consumed within a few months to preserve its delicate flavors. The craft cocktail movement has sparked renewed interest in premium vermouths, with artisanal producers creating expressions that showcase regional ingredients and innovative techniques.