Vermouth is a unique and fascinating beverage that falls into the category of fortified wines. Unlike traditional wines, vermouth has been modified and enhanced through a process of fortification, giving it a higher alcohol content. This is achieved by adding a neutral alcohol, such as clear grape brandy, to the wine.
One might wonder why vermouth is considered a wine if it has been fortified. Well, the base of vermouth is indeed wine. It starts with a quality wine, typically white, although red vermouth also exists. The wine serves as a canvas upon which the flavors and aromas of the vermouth are built.
The distinguishing feature of vermouth lies in its infusion of botanicals, herbs, and spices. These ingredients are carefully selected and added to the fortified wine, imparting a rich and complex flavor profile. The specific combination of botanicals can vary depending on the producer and the style of vermouth being made.
The botanicals used in vermouth can include a wide range of ingredients such as wormwood, which lends its name to the beverage (vermouth is derived from the German word “wermut,” meaning wormwood). Other common botanicals include gentian, angelica root, coriander, citrus peel, and various aromatic herbs and spices. These botanicals contribute to the unique taste and aroma of vermouth, giving it a distinct character that sets it apart from other fortified wines.
Vermouth comes in different styles, ranging from dry to sweet. Dry vermouth tends to have a more herbaceous and crisp flavor, with less residual sugar. It is often used as an ingredient in classic cocktails such as martinis and Manhattans. On the other hand, sweet vermouth has a richer and fuller flavor, with a touch of sweetness that balances the bitterness of the botanicals. Sweet vermouth is commonly used in cocktails like the Negroni and the classic Manhattan.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, vermouth has proven to be a versatile and intriguing beverage. Its complex flavor profile can be enjoyed on its own, sipped as an aperitif or digestif, or used as a key ingredient in a variety of cocktails. The marriage of wine and botanicals creates a harmonious blend of flavors that can be appreciated by both wine enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados.
To summarize, vermouth is a fortified wine that has been infused with a combination of botanicals, herbs, and spices. Its base is a quality wine, which is then fortified with neutral alcohol to increase its alcohol content. The botanicals contribute to the distinct flavor and aroma profile of vermouth, making it a unique and intriguing beverage that can be enjoyed in various ways.