Vermouth is one of the most versatile cocktail ingredients, known for its ability to add herbal depth, a touch of sweetness or bitterness, and complex aromas to classic drinks. Be it a spirit-forward Negroni, a refreshing spritz, or a sophisticated Manhattan, vermouth creates a lovely balance between all the ingredients, adding both substance and style.
Traditionally made by infusing white wine with botanicals, herbs, and spices, vermouth has a long-standing history in mixology. Vermouth traces its origins to ancient Greece, where fortified wines were infused with botanicals for medicinal purposes. However, the modern version of vermouth was perfected in 18th-century Italy and France, where it became a staple in aperitifs. The name “vermouth” is derived from the German word “wermut,” meaning wormwood, a key ingredient in its production. Over time, vermouth evolved from a medicinal tonic to an essential component in cocktails.
Vermouth offers a complex balance of botanicals, with aromas ranging from citrus zest and floral herbs to warm spices and bitter roots. On the palate, it showcases a harmonious blend of sweetness, bitterness, and acidity, creating a well-rounded and layered drinking experience. Dry vermouth tends to be light and crisp with herbal and briny notes, while sweet vermouth is richer, featuring caramel, vanilla, and dark fruit flavours. Its smooth texture is complemented by a lingering, slightly bitter finish that enhances its versatility in cocktails.
Also Read: Spirits Under ₹5000 To Try Over The Weekend
Best Vermouth for Cocktails
Otto’s Athens Vermouth
Tasting Notes: Bright citrus zest, floral rose petals, warm oregano, and a touch of herbal bitterness.
Best For: Aperitif cocktails, Negronis, and refreshing spritzers.
Why You Should Try It: This light and herbaceous vermouth is perfect for mixing into cocktails or sipping on its own over ice.
Importer: Fides Sales
Price: ₹2500
3 Vermouth-Based Cocktails to Try
Athens Negroni – A Mediterranean Take on a Classic
Inspired by: The iconic Negroni, but with Greek vermouth for a floral and herbal twist.
Base Spirit: Gin
Ingredients:
✔️ 30ml Otto’s Athens Vermouth
✔️ 30ml Campari
✔️ 30ml Mohulo Gin
✔️ Ice cubes
✔️ Orange peel for garnish
Instructions:
1️⃣ Stir the vermouth, Campari, and gin with ice in a mixing glass.
2️⃣ Strain into a chilled Old Fashioned glass over ice.
3️⃣ Garnish with an orange peel twist.
Why You’ll Love It: The Mediterranean botanicals in the vermouth add a unique floral and herbal complexity to this bitter-sweet cocktail. It’s an elegant, sophisticated drink that’s easy to make yet impressive.
Best Paired With: Charcuterie, olives, and strong cheeses.
Fun Twist: Let the orange peel release its oils over the drink by giving it a slight twist before garnishing for enhanced aroma and flavour.
Vermouth Spritz – A Light and Bubbly Aperitif
Inspired by: Italian Aperol Spritz, but with vermouth as the star ingredient.
Base Spirit: Vermouth & Sparkling Wine
Ingredients:
✔️ 60ml Otto’s Athens Vermouth
✔️ 90ml Prosecco or Sparkling Wine
✔️ 30ml Soda water
✔️ Ice cubes
✔️ Orange slice & mint for garnish
Instructions:
1️⃣ Fill a large wine glass with ice.
2️⃣ Add vermouth, sparkling wine, and soda water.
3️⃣ Stir gently and garnish with an orange slice and fresh mint.
Why You’ll Love It: This low-ABV cocktail is light, refreshing, and slightly herbal, making it perfect for warm afternoons or festive gatherings. The bubbles enhance the aromatics of the vermouth, creating a truly elegant and effortless drink.
Best Paired With: Light salads, seafood, and bruschetta
Fun Twist: Add a splash of grapefruit juice for a slightly tangy edge, or swap Prosecco for Champagne to make it luxurious.
Also Read: How To Make Basic Cocktails At Home
Herbal Manhattan – A Bold & Spiced Twist
Inspired by: The classic Manhattan, but with a Mediterranean herbal kick.
Base Spirit: Whisky
Ingredients:
✔️ 50ml Sterling Reserve ‘B7’ Rare Blended Whisky
✔️ 25ml Otto’s Athens Vermouth
✔️ 2 dashes Aromatic Bitters
✔️ Ice cubes
✔️ Brandied cherry for garnish
Instructions:
1️⃣ Stir whisky, vermouth, and bitters with ice in a mixing glass.
2️⃣ Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
3️⃣ Garnish with a brandied cherry.
Why You’ll Love It: The herbal vermouth softens the whiskey’s boldness, adding a smooth, floral balance. It’s a bold, flavorful cocktail that’s perfect for evening sipping.
Best Paired With: Grilled meats, roasted nuts, and dark chocolate.
Fun Twist: If you enjoy a sweeter Manhattan, swap the aromatic bitters for orange bitters, which will enhance the citrus notes of the vermouth.
Vermouth isn’t just a supporting player in cocktails—it can be enjoyed on its own as well. Here are some tips to elevate your vermouth experience:
Store Vermouth Properly: Vermouth is a fortified wine, which means it should be kept in the fridge after opening. It stays fresh for 4-6 weeks—after that, it starts to lose its vibrant flavous.
Experiment with Garnishes: Different garnishes can enhance the herbal and citrus notes of vermouth-based cocktails. Try:
- Lemon zest for a bright, refreshing twist
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for an extra herbal aroma
- A dash of sea salt to bring out the flavors even more
We hope you will enjoy our recommendations and share these spirits with your friends and loved ones. If you are looking for more such spirits recommendations, click here to check out the winners in the spirits category at the India Wines And Spirits Award 2024.
