health
February 27, 2026
Bitter-sweet symphony: vermouth is more than just another cocktail ingredient
There’s depth, complexity and nuance to this fortified wine that’s worth its own moment in the spotlight
TL;DR
- Vermouth is a fortified wine, a foundation for cocktails, but increasingly recognized for its individual qualities.
- It originated in 19th-century northern Italy and is made by aromatizing base wine with botanicals, traditionally wormwood, then fortifying it.
- Vermouth's complexity has been underrated, often identified only by color or dryness.
- Modern appreciation focuses on tasting its base wine, botanicals, and aging process, with producers highlighting grape varietals.
- Recommendations include drinking vermouth on the rocks as well as in cocktails.
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