This Mess Is Ours
What is vermouth?! You've probably heard of this fortified wine when looking up classic cocktail recipes, but do you know where it comes from, how to use it, or how it's made?
Vermouth is a fortified and aromatized wine, which basically means it is a wine that has been spiked with brandy, infused with herbs and spices, and sweetened.
Dry (White): First appeared in France and has more floral, fruity, and herbed notes. Historically, wormwood was dry vermouth’s hallmark ingredient. Sweet (Red): Originally hails from Italy and has a grander, fuller body of flavor than dry. It is delicate with a balance of spices like vanilla, caramel, and a more fruity finish.
Dry (White): First appeared in France and has more floral, fruity, and herbed notes. Historically, wormwood was dry vermouth’s hallmark ingredient.
Dry (White): First appeared in France and has more floral, fruity, and herbed notes. Historically, wormwood was dry vermouth’s hallmark ingredient. Sweet (Red): Originally hails from Italy and has a grander, fuller body of flavor than dry. It is delicate with a balance of spices like vanilla, caramel, and a more fruity finish.
Sweet (Red): Originally hails from Italy and has a grander, fuller body of flavor than dry. It is delicate with a balance of spices like vanilla, caramel, and a more fruity finish.
What is Vermouth used for? The Italians, Spanish, and French often drink vermouth by itself as an aperitif on the rocks with a lemon twist (if it's white ) or an orange twist (if it's red). Sometimes a splash of soda or sparkling wine is added to make a lightly boozy spritz.
Can you cook with vermouth? Why yes, yes you can! Use dry vermouth in place of white wine and sweet in place of reds.
What classic cocktail recipes call for fortified wine? Classic Vodka Martini Classic Gin Martini Daiquiris Boulevardiers Negroni Manhattan and more!
Most people believe that it is a spirit and that it can be stored on the shelf for years like other alcohols, but because it is a fortified wine it is susceptible to oxidation. Vermouth should be stored in the refrigerator after it has been opened.