Vermouth, that classic drink that conjures up images of relaxed afternoons and lively gatherings, has long been a staple of Spanish culinary culture. Popular at aperitifs and social gatherings, vermouth has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years, winning over fans among those seeking to rediscover its flavour and versatility. But what exactly is vermouth, and what goes into it?
What is vermouth?
Vermouth is a fortified, aromatised wine made with a blend of herbs, spices and other botanicals. Originally from Italy, though it also has a long tradition in Spain and France, vermouth is made from white wine, which is combined with alcohol and infused with a selection of aromatic ingredients. The result is a drink with a complex and balanced flavour, which can be sweet or dry, depending on the recipe used. Traditionally, vermouth has been enjoyed as an aperitif, served neat or on the rocks, but its versatility makes it an excellent ingredient for cocktails.
Vermouth ingredients
The basic ingredients of vermouth include white wine, neutral spirit, sugar (or grape must in some cases), and a blend of botanicals. These botanicals typically include a variety of herbs, flowers, spices and fruits. Among the most common are wormwood, which is essential to the creation of vermouth and gives it its characteristic bitterness, along with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, citrus peel and chamomile. Each vermouth producer jealously guards their recipe, resulting in a wide variety of flavours and styles, depending on the combination and proportion of ingredients used.
Types of Vermouth
There are several types of vermouth, which vary in flavour and sweetness:
Red Vermouth
Of Italian origin, it is the most common type in Spain. It is sweet and has a dark colour due to the addition of caramel and strong botanicals. Its flavour is rich and complex, with notes of spices and herbs.
White Vermouth
Originating in France, this vermouth is lighter and sweeter than red vermouth, with a more fruity and floral flavour profile. It is ideal for those who prefer a sweeter vermouth.
Dry Vermouth
Known for its lower sugar content, dry vermouth is a key ingredient in classic cocktails such as the martini. It has a drier, more bitter flavour, making it perfect for those looking for something less sweet.
Rosé Vermouth
A more modern variety, rosé vermouth combines the sweetness of white vermouth with the character of red vermouth, and tends to have a fruitier flavour profile.
Ways to enjoy vermouth
Vermouth can be enjoyed in many different ways, making it an extremely versatile drink. Here are a few suggestions:
Neat or on the rocks
The most traditional way to enjoy vermouth is simply on its own, or with ice and a slice of orange and/or an olive. This is the best way to fully appreciate the drink’s complex flavours.
In cocktails
Vermouth is an essential ingredient in many classic cocktails. Try a Negroni, which combines vermouth with gin and Campari, or an Americano, which combines red vermouth, Campari and sparkling water. For something drier, a martini made with dry vermouth is always an excellent choice.
Recommended side dishes for pub food
At Taberna 7, we recommend pairing your vermouth with some of our classic tapas, such as the Gilda XL, the smoked sardine toast, or our Manchego cheese. Patatas bravas or torreznos are also an excellent choice, as their strong flavours perfectly complement the complexity of the vermouth. Another irresistible option is our homemade croquettes, which add a crispy and tasty touch to your vermouth experience.
Whatever your preference, vermouth is always an excellent choice to enjoy in good company with a tasty tapa.
Book your table and discover everything this wonderful drink has to offer – come and enjoy it at Taberna 7!
