Vermouth is a staple in most bars, but it can be hard to keep track of its different types. Vermouth has a long and complicated history, but that’s part of what makes it so interesting! It was originally created as an alcohol-spiked alternative to wine for pregnant women who couldn’t drink.
Today, there are dozens of vermouths available on the market (and we’re not even counting the really obscure ones!).
What is Vermouth?
Vermouth is a fortified wine that’s been flavored and aromatized with herbs to create an aged liquor. It’s similar to vermouths from other regions, but it’s the only vermouth produced in Italy. It’s mostly used in cocktails, particularly in martinis and Manhattans.
Vermouth is a fortified wine that’s been flavored and aromatized with herbs to create an aged liquor. It’s similar to vermouths from other regions, but it’s the only vermouth produced in Italy. It’s mostly used in cocktails, particularly in martinis and Manhattans. Aging the wine gives it a distinct flavor and scent. The aging process also increases the alcohol content, making it stronger than other vermouths.
Types of Vermouth
Italian Vermouth
Made in Italy, this vermouth is aged in oak barrels and is often used in classic cocktails. It’s perfect for reducing the bitterness of ingredients like Campari and Cynar (pictured above).
French Vermouth
Made in France, this vermouth is made from red grapes and is darker than Italian vermouth. The grapes give it a stronger flavor and darker color. The flavor is often described as being more herbal and complex than Italian vermouth.
American Vermouth
This type of vermouth is produced in a few different kinds of barrels, depending on which region it’s from. American vermouths often have a lighter flavor than French and Italian vermouths.
Where to buy cocktail vermouth?
Since each type of vermouth has distinct flavors, you’ll most likely only find one in a store. If you want to try different types, you’ll have to buy them online. Some specialty stores will also carry them. If you try and find Italian vermouth, you’ll also run into another tricky thing: bottle color.
Some vermouths come in clear bottles, while others are colored red. In general, red-colored vermouths are aged in barrels. However, some wine companies blend the two and call it red vermouth. This can be confusing, so always make sure you’re getting Italian vermouth.
Pros of Vermouth
Complex Flavors
Like all liquors, vermouth gets its flavors from the ingredients in it. However, it’s aged in wine barrels, which gives it a stronger flavor. This extra flavor comes from the barrels’ wood, as well as the herbs that are added.
Versatile
Because it can be mixed with other ingredients, vermouth is a great tool for creating custom cocktails. The variety of flavors means you can use it in almost any drink.
Reduction
Vermouth is a strong liquor that’s great for reducing bitterness in other ingredients. For example, you can use it in place of red wine in a sangria recipe.
Cons of Vermouth
Price
Most vermouths cost between $10 and $30 per bottle, making them much more expensive than wine or beer. And, depending on the kind of vermouth you buy, that final cost can quickly add up.
Strong Smell
The smell of vermouth is typically strong, so if you’re planning to use it in drinks, keep that in mind.
Vomit Smell
Some people also find that vermouth has a particularly strong smell that lingers in their noses, making them smell “vomit” when they’re not drinking anything. If this isn’t a problem for you, it’s not a problem for others either!
Conclusion
Vermouth is a drink staple that can be found in almost every bar. It comes in a variety of flavors, including red wine, French, and American vermouth. It’s a strong liquor, so be careful when using it. Plus, it can be expensive, so make sure you’re enjoying it.
Vermouth is a drink staple that can be found in almost every bar. It comes in a variety of flavors, including red wine, French, and American vermouth. It’s a strong liquor, so be careful when using it. Plus, it can be expensive, so make sure you’re enjoying it.
