Vermouth

What is vermouth?

Vermouth is a fortified wine that has been aromatized with various botanicals, herbs, and spices, most notably Artemisia absinthium (wormwood), from which it derives its name. The base wine, typically white but sometimes red, is fortified with neutral spirits to achieve an alcohol content of 16-18% ABV. The distinctive flavor profile comes from a proprietary blend of botanicals that may include roots, barks, flowers, seeds, and herbs such as cardamom, cinnamon, marjoram, and chamomile. There are two primary styles: dry vermouth (French style) with sugar content below 4%, and sweet vermouth (Italian style) containing 10-15% sugar. Production involves macerating botanicals in the fortified wine or neutral alcohol, followed by blending, sweetening if required, and aging. Vermouth plays a crucial role in classic cocktails like the Martini and Manhattan, and is traditionally consumed as an aperitif. In Argentina, vermouth culture is particularly strong, with local producers creating distinctive versions that reflect regional tastes and are often enjoyed neat over ice with citrus garnish, embodying the country’s sophisticated drinking traditions.