Dry Vermouth

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Dry vermouth is a fortified wine that plays a crucial role in classic cocktails, offering a delicate balance of herbal, floral, and slightly bitter flavors. Originating from France, it is made by infusing a white wine base with a blend of botanicals, including herbs, spices, and flowers, then fortified with a small amount of neutral spirit to increase its alcohol content and stabilize the wine. Compared to sweet vermouth, dry vermouth has a crisp, lighter profile with lower sugar content, making it essential for cocktails like the Martini.

In taste, dry vermouth is characterized by subtle notes of green herbs, citrus peel, and a hint of bitterness, along with floral undertones. Its restrained sweetness allows it to complement spirits like gin and vodka, enhancing their flavors without overpowering them. Beyond the Martini, dry vermouth is also used in cocktails such as the Negroni Blanc and the classic Adonis.

Dry vermouth is versatile beyond cocktails, often used in cooking to add depth to sauces, marinades, and seafood dishes. While many associate it with France (notably brands from the Chambéry region), Italy also produces excellent dry vermouths with their own distinct flair. To maintain its delicate flavors, it’s recommended to store opened bottles in the refrigerator and use them within a couple of months.