When it comes to the question of whether people drink sweet vermouth straight, the answer is not a simple yes or no. It really depends on personal taste preferences and the occasion. Some people do enjoy sipping on sweet vermouth neat, while others prefer to enjoy it in a cocktail or mixed with soda or tonic.
Neat is a term used to describe drinking a spirit or a fortified wine on its own, without any additional mixers or dilution. Drinking sweet vermouth neat allows you to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas in their purest form. It can be a delightful experience for those who appreciate the complex and rich characteristics of vermouth.
When enjoying sweet vermouth neat, it is often recommended to serve it over ice. This helps to slightly chill the vermouth and dilute it just enough to mellow out any strong or harsh flavors. The cold temperature can also enhance the refreshing nature of the drink. Some people even prefer to add a twist of lemon or orange peel to further enhance the aromatic qualities of the vermouth.
However, it is worth noting that sweet vermouth is not typically consumed in large quantities like other alcoholic beverages. It is often enjoyed as an aperitif, which means it is meant to stimulate the appetite before a meal. Therefore, a small glass of sweet vermouth over ice can be a pleasant way to start a dining experience.
On the other hand, many people prefer to enjoy sweet vermouth in a mixed drink or cocktail. It is an essential ingredient in classic cocktails such as the negroni, manhattan, and americano. These cocktails combine the flavors of vermouth with other spirits and bitters to create a well-balanced and complex drink. The sweetness of the vermouth can help to mellow out the strong flavors of the other ingredients, creating a harmonious blend.
Another popular way to enjoy sweet vermouth is by diluting it with soda or tonic water. This creates a refreshing and lower-alcohol option, perfect for those who prefer a lighter drink. The carbonation from the soda or tonic can add a pleasant effervescence to the vermouth, making it a great choice for sipping on a hot summer day or as a lighter alternative to a cocktail.
While some people do enjoy drinking sweet vermouth straight, it is not the most common way to consume it. Neat vermouth can be a delightful experience, especially when served over ice and garnished with a twist of citrus peel. However, sweet vermouth is more commonly enjoyed in cocktails or mixed with soda or tonic water. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for creating complex and flavorful drinks.