Vermouth is a fortified wine that has been infused with various botanicals, including herbs, spices, and fruits. It is a popular ingredient in many classic cocktails, such as the Martini and the Manhattan. Vermouth can be either dry or sweet, and each type has its own unique flavor profile.
Dry vermouth is typically pale and straw-colored, with a light floral aroma. Its flavor is crisp and herbal, with notes of white wine, citrus peel, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Sweet vermouth is usually darker in color, offering flavors of caramel, dark fruits, and spices such as cloves and nutmeg. It has a grander, fuller body of flavor than a typical dry vermouth.
Each brand of vermouth has its own unique flavor, and the botanicals used in the infusion process can vary widely. Vermouth can be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif, or used as an ingredient in a variety of cocktails. Understanding the different types and flavors of vermouth can help elevate your cocktail game and impress your guests with your knowledge and expertise.
What is Vermouth?
Vermouth is a type of wine that has been infused with botanicals such as herbs, spices, and roots. It is typically fortified with additional alcohol, such as brandy or neutral spirits, and sweetened with caramelized sugar. Vermouth comes in two main varieties: sweet vermouth and dry vermouth.
History of Vermouth
Vermouth has a long and storied history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome. It was originally used for medicinal purposes, as the herbs and spices were believed to have healing properties. Over time, vermouth became a popular aperitif, enjoyed before meals to stimulate the appetite.
The modern version of vermouth was first produced in the late 18th century in Turin, Italy. The recipe included wormwood, which gave the wine its name (vermouth is derived from the German word for wormwood, Wermut). Vermouth quickly gained popularity throughout Europe and became a staple ingredient in classic cocktails such as the martini and the Manhattan.
Ingredients of Vermouth
The exact ingredients used in vermouth can vary depending on the brand and style, but there are a few key botanicals that are commonly used. These include:
Wormwood
Gentian root
Angelica root
Cinnamon
Citrus peel
Coriander
Sweet vermouth typically contains additional flavorings such as vanilla, caramel, and cloves, while dry vermouth is more herbaceous and floral in flavor.
Overall, vermouth is a complex and flavorful wine that adds depth and complexity to cocktails and other drinks. Its unique blend of herbs and spices makes it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways.
Tasting Vermouth
Aroma
When tasting vermouth, the aroma is an important aspect to consider. Dry vermouth typically has a light floral aroma with hints of citrus peel and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
On the other hand, sweet vermouth typically has a stronger aroma due to the addition of sugar, honey, or other sweeteners in its production process.
The aroma of sweet vermouth is often described as having notes of caramel, dark fruits, and spices such as cloves and nutmeg.
Flavor Profile
The flavor profile of vermouth can vary depending on whether it is dry or sweet. Dry vermouth has a crisp and herbal flavor with notes of white wine, while sweet vermouth has a stronger herbal flavor with notes of cinnamon, licorice, and vanilla.
Additionally, the flavor of vermouth can vary depending on the brand due to the range of botanicals used in its production process.
Texture and Mouthfeel
When tasting vermouth, the texture and mouthfeel can also be important factors to consider. Dry vermouth is typically pale and straw-colored with a light body, while sweet vermouth is usually darker in color and has a heavier body.
The mouthfeel of vermouth can also vary depending on the brand and production process. Some vermouths may have a smoother mouthfeel, while others may have a more pronounced alcohol burn.
How to Drink Vermouth
Drinking vermouth can be a unique experience, and there are several ways to enjoy it. Whether you prefer it straight up, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, vermouth offers a range of flavors and aromas that can be savored in different ways.
Straight Up
Drinking vermouth straight up is a great way to appreciate its unique flavors and aromas. When served chilled, vermouth can be sipped and savored much like a fine wine. It is recommended to use a small glass to enjoy it in small sips, allowing the flavors to develop on the palate.
On the Rocks
Another way to enjoy vermouth is on the rocks. This method involves serving the vermouth over ice, which can help to mellow out some of the more intense flavors and aromas. For those who prefer a more diluted taste, adding a splash of soda water can help to balance out the flavors and create a refreshing drink.
In a Cocktail
Vermouth is also a popular ingredient in many classic cocktails, including the Manhattan, Negroni, and Martini. When used in a cocktail, vermouth can add depth and complexity to the drink, enhancing the other flavors and creating a well-balanced cocktail.
When mixing vermouth in a cocktail, it is important to use a quality vermouth and to follow the recipe closely to achieve the desired flavor profile.
Overall, vermouth can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from sipping it straight up to mixing it in a cocktail. With its unique flavors and aromas, vermouth is a versatile drink that can be appreciated by both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.
Pairing Vermouth with Food
Sweet Vermouth Pairings
Sweet vermouth is a versatile ingredient that can be paired with a variety of foods. Its caramel and dark fruit flavors make it an excellent match for rich, savory dishes like roasted meats and stews. It also pairs well with strong cheeses like blue cheese and gorgonzola.
For a lighter pairing, sweet vermouth can be served with fruit-based dishes like peach or apple desserts. It also pairs well with chocolate desserts, particularly those with a dark chocolate base.
Dry Vermouth Pairings
Dry vermouth’s crisp and herbal flavor makes it an excellent match for light, fresh dishes. It pairs well with seafood dishes like shrimp and scallops, as well as with salads and vegetable dishes.
Dry vermouth can also be paired with cheese dishes like quiches and frittatas, where its light flavor won’t overpower the dish. It can also be used in cooking, particularly in sauces for fish and poultry dishes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the taste of vermouth is a complex and delightful experience. With its blend of botanicals, herbs, spices, and wine, vermouth offers a harmonious balance of flavors that can vary depending on the style and brand.
Its aromas range from floral and fruity to herbal and earthy, while the taste can be both sweet and bitter, with a pleasant acidity. Vermouth’s distinctiveness lies in its ability to enhance and complement other ingredients in cocktails, making it a versatile and indispensable component in the world of mixology.
Whether enjoyed on its own or in a cocktail, vermouth tantalizes the palate with its unique combination of flavors, adding depth, complexity, and a touch of sophistication to any drinking experience.
Chef Michael Correll began his restaurant career near his home in his teens as a pizza cook, but soon moved to Philadelphia where he first landed at Jones, an acclaimed Stephen Starr restaurant on Chesntut Street.
It was also in Philadelphia that Chef Correll pursued his culinary education, graduating from the Art Institute of Philadelphia in 2008.
After school he worked for Chef Marc Plessis at Nineteen in the Park Hyatt Hotel before moving to Pinehurst, North Carolina to open the Carolina Room.
