What is vermouth?

Vermouth is an aromatized fortified wine, flavored with various botanicals (roots, barks, flowers, seeds, herbs, and spices). It is produced by adding these botanicals to a base wine, and then fortifying it with a neutral grape spirit.

There are several styles of vermouth, most notably:

• Sweet Vermouth (often called Italian vermouth): Typically red, with a sweeter flavor profile. It's a key ingredient in classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Negroni.

• Dry Vermouth (often called French vermouth): Usually clear or very pale, with a drier, more herbaceous flavor. It's famously used in Martinis.

• Blanc or Bianco Vermouth: A style that is generally sweeter than dry vermouth but less so than sweet vermouth, with a pale color and floral or vanilla notes.

• Rosé Vermouth: Characterized by a pink hue and typically displays a balance between sweetness and bitterness.

Vermouth's flavor profile is highly complex and varies greatly depending on the specific botanicals used by the producer. Common botanicals include wormwood (which is required for it to be legally classified as vermouth), gentian, cinchona bark, citrus peel, vanilla, and various herbs and spices.

Vermouth is traditionally consumed as an aperitif, served chilled or over ice. It's also a crucial ingredient in many cocktails, adding depth and complexity to the drink.