Vermouth Dry is a type of fortified wine that is characterized by its dry and herbaceous flavor profile. It is made by infusing white wine with a blend of botanicals, which can include herbs, spices, and roots. The infusion is then fortified with a neutral grape spirit to increase its alcohol content and balance its flavor.
The botanicals used in Vermouth Dry can vary, but they often include ingredients such as wormwood, which gives the vermouth its characteristic bitterness, as well as ingredients such as chamomile, coriander, and cardamom, which contribute to its complex flavor profile.
Vermouth Dry is a popular ingredient in classic cocktails such as the Martini and the Manhattan, where it adds depth and complexity to the drink. It is also commonly enjoyed as an aperitif, served chilled and garnished with a twist of lemon or orange peel.
Dry Vermouth Cocktail Recipes
3 Classic Dry Vermouth Cocktails
- Martini: In a mixing glass filled with ice, add 2 1/2 oz gin and 1/2 oz Vermouth Dry. Stir the ingredients for about 30 seconds until they are well chilled and diluted. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a twist of lemon or olive.
- Manhattan: In a mixing glass filled with ice, add 2 oz rye whiskey, 1 oz Vermouth Dry, and a dash of Angostura bitters. Stir the ingredients for about 30 seconds until they are well chilled and diluted. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a cherry.
- Negroni: In a mixing glass filled with ice, add 1 oz gin, 1 oz Campari, and 1 oz Vermouth Dry. Stir the ingredients for about 30 seconds until they are well chilled and diluted. Strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with ice and garnish with a twist of orange peel.
In each of these cocktails, Vermouth Dry is used as a key ingredient to provide complexity, depth, and balance to the drink. Its dry and herbaceous flavor profile pairs particularly well with gin and whiskey, making it a popular choice in classic cocktail recipes.
3 Modern Dry Vermouth Cocktails
- Paper Plane: In a shaker filled with ice, add 3/4 oz bourbon, 3/4 oz Aperol, 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino, and 3/4 oz Vermouth Dry. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10 seconds, then strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon.
- Rosita: In a mixing glass filled with ice, add 1 1/2 oz tequila, 3/4 oz Campari, 3/4 oz Vermouth Dry, and 1/2 oz sweet vermouth. Stir the ingredients for about 30 seconds until they are well chilled and diluted. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a twist of orange peel.
- Paper Moon: In a shaker filled with ice, add 1 1/2 oz vodka, 1 oz St. Germain elderflower liqueur, 3/4 oz Vermouth Dry, and 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice. Shake the ingredients vigorously for about 10 seconds, then strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon.
In each of these modern cocktails, Vermouth Dry is used to provide a unique and interesting flavor profile that complements the other ingredients in the drink. The herbaceous notes of Vermouth Dry are balanced by sweet or bitter ingredients, creating a complex and well-rounded cocktail.
5 Unique Dry Vermouth Cocktail Recipes
- Lavender Spritz:
- 2 oz Vermouth Dry
- 1 oz lavender syrup
- 1 oz grapefruit juice
- 2 oz soda water
In a shaker filled with ice, combine Vermouth Dry, lavender syrup, and grapefruit juice. Shake well for about 10 seconds, then strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and garnish with a sprig of fresh lavender.
- Spiced Pear:
- 2 oz pear juice
- 1 oz Vermouth Dry
- 1/2 oz ginger liqueur
- 1/4 oz lemon juice
In a shaker filled with ice, combine pear juice, Vermouth Dry, ginger liqueur, and lemon juice. Shake well for about 10 seconds, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a slice of fresh pear.
- Garden Gimlet:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz Vermouth Dry
- 1 oz cucumber juice
- 1/4 oz lime juice
- 1/4 oz honey syrup
In a shaker filled with ice, combine gin, Vermouth Dry, cucumber juice, lime juice, and honey syrup. Shake well for about 10 seconds, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a cucumber slice.
- Saffron Sour:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz Vermouth Dry
- 1/2 oz saffron syrup
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 1 egg white
In a shaker filled with ice, combine tequila, Vermouth Dry, saffron syrup, lime juice, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a sprinkle of saffron threads.
- Orange Blossom:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz Vermouth Dry
- 1 oz orange juice
- 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur
- 2 dashes orange bitters
In a shaker filled with ice, combine gin, Vermouth Dry, orange juice, elderflower liqueur, and orange bitters. Shake well for about 10 seconds, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a twist of orange peel.
About Vermouth Dry
Origin: Vermouth Dry, also known as white or bianco vermouth, originated in Italy in the late 18th century. It was initially used as a medicinal tonic before it became a popular ingredient in cocktails.
Ingredients: Vermouth Dry is made by infusing a white wine base with a variety of botanicals, including wormwood, herbs, and spices. Other common ingredients include chamomile, gentian, coriander, and citrus peel. Sweeteners like sugar or caramel may also be added.
Flavor: Vermouth Dry has a complex flavor profile that can vary depending on the specific recipe and brand. It is typically dry and herbaceous, with notes of bitterness, citrus, and spice.
Proof: Vermouth Dry has an alcohol content of around 16-18% ABV (32-36 proof).
Usage: Vermouth Dry is a versatile ingredient in cocktails and can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used to add depth and complexity to classic cocktails like the Martini or Negroni, or it can be used as the base for modern cocktails that showcase its unique flavor profile.
Serving: Vermouth Dry is typically served chilled and can be enjoyed on its own as an aperitif or mixed into a cocktail. It is often served over ice with a twist of lemon or orange.
Production: Vermouth Dry is produced through a process of infusion and maceration, where the botanicals are steeped in the white wine base for several weeks. The mixture is then strained and fortified with additional alcohol before being bottled.
Manufacturer: Vermouth Dry is produced by a number of different manufacturers around the world. Some of the most well-known brands include Martini & Rossi, Dolin, Noilly Prat, and Carpano.
Variations: There are many variations of Vermouth Dry that can vary in their specific recipe and flavor profile. Some variations may include additional botanicals or spices, or they may be aged in oak barrels to add complexity and depth. Additionally, some producers may offer flavored Vermouth Dry varieties, such as strawberry or raspberry.
In addition to being a key ingredient in cocktails, Vermouth Dry can also be mixed with other beverages to create refreshing drinks. Here are some examples of what Vermouth Dry can be mixed with:
- Tonic Water: Mixing Vermouth Dry with tonic water creates a refreshing, low-alcohol drink that is perfect for sipping on a hot day.
- Sparkling Water: For a lighter option, try mixing Vermouth Dry with sparkling water. Add a twist of citrus for some extra flavor.
- Soda: Mixing Vermouth Dry with soda (such as club soda or lemon-lime soda) creates a slightly sweeter version of the Vermouth tonic.
- Grapefruit Juice: The bitterness of grapefruit juice pairs well with the herbaceous notes of Vermouth Dry. Mix together for a tangy, refreshing drink.
- Ginger Beer: Mixing Vermouth Dry with ginger beer creates a spicy, slightly sweet drink with a kick. Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Cider: For a seasonal twist, try mixing Vermouth Dry with apple cider. Add a cinnamon stick for extra flavor.
- Lemonade: Mixing Vermouth Dry with lemonade creates a refreshing, tangy drink with a hint of sweetness. Add a sprig of fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for extra flavor.
These are just a few examples of what Vermouth Dry can be mixed with. Feel free to experiment with your favorite mixers to create your own unique drinks.