In a bottle of Martini, you will find a carefully crafted blend of high-quality wine and selected herbs and spices, all sourced from the beautiful region of Torino, Italy. The base of Martini is 75% high-quality wine, which forms the foundation for its unique flavor profile. The wine used in Martini is of the utmost importance, as it sets the stage for the infusion of herbs and spices that give the vermouth its distinct character.
To create the perfect blend, Martini's master blenders select only the finest wines from the region. These wines are chosen based on their quality, flavor, and ability to harmonize with the botanicals that will be added later in the process. The winemakers in Torino take great pride in their craft, ensuring that each bottle of Martini starts with a base of exceptional wine.
Once the high-quality wine is selected, it is then infused with a carefully chosen selection of herbs and spices. The exact combination of botanicals used in Martini is a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations of master blenders. However, one herb that is always included is Artemisia absinthium, also known as wormwood.
Artemisia absinthium, or wormwood, is a key ingredient in vermouth production and has been used for centuries for its aromatic and medicinal properties. It adds a unique bitterness and herbal complexity to the vermouth, contributing to Martini's distinctive taste. The use of wormwood is regulated, and its inclusion in vermouth is subject to strict legal requirements.
In addition to wormwood, a variety of other herbs and spices are added to the wine base to create the signature blend of Martini. These may include botanicals such as gentian, angelica root, coriander, and many others. Each herb and spice is carefully chosen to contribute its own flavor and aroma, resulting in a harmonious and well-balanced vermouth.
The blending process is a meticulous art, with the master blenders carefully measuring and combining the wine and botanicals to achieve the desired flavor profile. The herbs and spices are macerated in the wine, allowing their flavors to infuse and meld together over time. This process may take weeks or even months, as the flavors develop and evolve.
Once the blending process is complete, the vermouth is then carefully filtered and bottled, ready to be enjoyed by discerning cocktail enthusiasts around the world. The result is a bottle of Martini, filled with the rich flavors of high-quality wine and a carefully curated selection of herbs and spices.
Every time you open a bottle of Martini, you can be assured that you are experiencing the culmination of centuries of craftsmanship and expertise. The dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients and the meticulous blending process ensures that each bottle of Martini offers a consistently exceptional tasting experience.
So, the next time you pour yourself a glass of Martini, take a moment to appreciate the artistry and passion that goes into creating this iconic vermouth. Cheers!