Vermouth is a fortified wine that has been around for centuries. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in many cocktails, adding depth and complexity to the drink.
Vermouth is a key ingredient in classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Martini, but there are many other delicious cocktails that can be made with this spirit.
Vermouth comes in two varieties: sweet and dry. Sweet vermouth is made with red wine and has a sweet, herbal flavor. Dry vermouth is made with white wine and has a more subtle, floral flavor.
Both types of vermouth can be used in cocktails, but they have different flavor profiles and work best in different types of drinks.
One of the great things about vermouth is that it’s a low-alcohol spirit, which means that you can enjoy a few cocktails without getting too drunk.
Vermouth cocktails are perfect for sipping on a lazy afternoon or for enjoying with friends at a dinner party. They’re also a great way to explore new flavors and ingredients, as vermouth can be paired with a variety of spirits and mixers.
In this blog post, we’ll be exploring some of the best vermouth cocktail recipes out there. From classic drinks like the Negroni and the Boulevardier to modern twists like the Vermouth Spritz and the Vermouth Sour, we’ll be showcasing the versatility and deliciousness of this underrated spirit.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a home mixologist, these vermouth cocktails are sure to impress. So grab a bottle of vermouth and let’s get mixing!
1. Lime Basil Vermouth Cocktail
The Lime Basil Vermouth Cocktail is a refreshing and aromatic drink that is perfect for a lazy summer afternoon or a dinner alfresco. This low-alcohol cocktail requires only three ingredients and can be made in under a minute, making it a perfect choice for those who want a quick and easy drink.
The vermouth takes center stage in this cocktail, and the addition of lime and basil gives it a light and citrusy flavor with a hint of herbal aroma. This cocktail is perfect for those who want a light and refreshing drink that is not too sweet or overpowering. If you are looking for a new summer cocktail to try, the Lime Basil Vermouth Cocktail is definitely worth a shot.
2. Christmas Mulled Vermouth
The Christmas Mulled Vermouth cocktail is a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. This cocktail is a twist on the classic mulled wine recipe, but instead of using wine, vermouth is infused with traditional holiday spices like cinnamon, cardamom, clove, allspice, and star anise. The infusion process takes about 12-24 hours, but the result is a warm and cozy vermouth that can be used in a variety of cocktails.
The sweet vermouth base adds a rich and complex flavor to classic cocktails like the Manhattan, Negroni, and Boulevardier. The addition of orange bitters or slices adds a bright and citrusy note to the cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for those who love the warm and comforting flavors of the holiday season.
3. Vermouth Cassis
Vermouth Cassis is a refreshing and light cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. This cocktail is made with vermouth, a fortified white wine, and creme de cassis, a blackcurrant liqueur. The two ingredients are shaken together with ice and topped with Club Soda.
Creme de cassis is a magical ingredient that is used in champagne to make the famous Kir Royale. Vermouth Cassis is a delicious concoction that is sweet and refreshing, making it a perfect summer sipper. If you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, Vermouth Cassis is definitely worth a taste.
4. Grapefruit Cinzano
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-drink cocktail? Look no further than the Grapefruit Cinzano! This cocktail combines sweet vermouth, gin, fresh grapefruit juice, and sparkling water to create a light and bright beverage that's perfect for any occasion. The sweet vermouth adds a floral note with hints of white peach, while the gin adds a bit of kick to the drink.
The fresh grapefruit juice and optional honey syrup round out the flavors, and the sparkling water adds a refreshing touch. This cocktail is perfect for brunch, a patio party, or as an aperitif. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why the Grapefruit Cinzano is one of the best vermouth cocktail recipes out there?
5. The Aficionado Cocktail
The Aficionado Cocktail is a gin and dry vermouth-based drink that is perfect for those who enjoy a sophisticated yet simple cocktail. The herbal and slightly astringent qualities of gin and dry vermouth are beautifully complemented by the addition of thyme and lemon in this recipe.
The cocktail is named after an aficionado, someone who is knowledgeable and enthusiastic about a subject, and it certainly lives up to its name. The Aficionado Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a classic cocktail with a modern twist.
6. El Presidente Cocktail
The El Presidente Cocktail is a Cuban classic that is often overlooked but is definitely worth trying. This slow sipper is a sophisticated and boozy rum cocktail that is perfect for those who enjoy a complex and nuanced flavor. The combination of aged rum, vermouth blanc, orange liqueur, and grenadine creates a subtly bitter yet sweet and citrusy taste that is truly unique.
The use of vermouth blanc, a lesser-known type of vermouth, adds a special touch to the drink. The El Presidente Cocktail is perfect for sipping on a special occasion or when you want to treat yourself to something special. If you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to add to your repertoire, the El Presidente Cocktail is definitely one to try.
7. Old Pal Cocktail
The Old Pal Cocktail is a classic Vermouth-based cocktail that has recently gained popularity due to its appearance on the hit TV show Downton Abbey. This cocktail is a perfect balance of whiskey, dry vermouth, and Campari, creating a unique and complex flavor profile.
The cocktail is typically served over ice and garnished with an orange twist, adding a touch of brightness to the drink. The Old Pal Cocktail is a great option for those looking for a sophisticated and nuanced cocktail that is sure to impress. Its rich history and unique flavor make it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
8. Classic Gibson Cocktail
The Classic Gibson Cocktail is a gin-based drink that's essentially a dry martini with a pickled onion garnish. It's a sophisticated and dry cocktail that's perfect for those who enjoy savory flavors.
The pungent onion garnish adds a unique twist to the classic martini, making it an altogether new drink. The Gibson is crisp, cool, and spirit-forward, making it a must-try for martini lovers looking for something different.
9. Sweet Martini
The Sweet Martini is a classic cocktail recipe that has been overshadowed by its drier counterpart, the Dry Martini. However, this cocktail should not be overlooked as it offers a unique blend of herbal flavors and a smooth finish. Unlike the Dry Martini, the Sweet Martini calls for sweet vermouth instead of dry vermouth, and old Tom Gin instead of dry gin.
This gives the cocktail a sweeter taste that some may prefer to enjoy after dinner. The addition of a maraschino cherry instead of a lemon twist adds a touch of sweetness to this already delicious cocktail. Overall, the Sweet Martini is a lost classic that deserves to be rediscovered and enjoyed.
10. Gibson
The Gibson is a classic and sophisticated cocktail that is often referred to as the cousin of the Martini. It is made by combining gin and dry vermouth in a shaker and garnishing it with a cocktail onion.
The cocktail onion adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the drink, making it perfect for those who enjoy a dry and savory drink. The Gibson is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast looking for a timeless and elegant drink.
11. Americano
The Americano is a classic Italian cocktail that's perfect for summer afternoons. It's a refreshing and bubbly drink made with equal parts Campari and vermouth, and a splash of soda water. The cocktail dates back to the 1860s and was invented in a bar called Caffe Campari in Milan, Italy.
The Americano is closely related to the Negroni and is even better, in our opinion. It's bitter, complex, and bubbly all at once, making it a sophisticated and carefree drink. The cocktail is perfect for sipping as an aperitif or for any summer occasion. If you're a fan of bitter and fruity flavors, the Americano is a must-try cocktail.
12. Añejo Manhattan
The Añejo Manhattan is a modern twist on the classic Manhattan Cocktail, perfect for tequila lovers. Made with Añejo Tequila, sweet vermouth, and bitters, this cocktail is a blend of salty earthy tequila mixed with caramel and vanilla flavors. The Añejo Manhattan can be served either up in a stemmed glass or in a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
If you're a fan of tequila, this cocktail is a must-try. It's a perfect balance of sweet and salty, with a smooth finish that will leave you wanting more. The Añejo Manhattan is a great addition to any cocktail menu and is sure to impress your guests.
13. Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail made with Vermouth, Campari, and Gin. It has a 1:1:1 ratio, making it perfect for those who enjoy a dry drink.
The cocktail is best served in a rocks glass with 1-2 large ice cubes to prevent the drink from being watered down too quickly. The Negroni is refreshing and easy to make, making it a must-try for cocktail lovers.
14. Cherry Manhattan
The Cherry Manhattan is a modern twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail. This cocktail is made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, bitters, and a homemade cherry simple syrup that adds a delightful sweetness to the drink. The garnish of a maraschino cherry complements the cherry flavor in the cocktail perfectly.
While maraschino cherries can be expensive, there are cheaper alternatives that can be used in this recipe. The Cherry Manhattan is a great cocktail for those who are looking for a refined whiskey drink with a fruity twist. It's a perfect cocktail to sip on during a night out or to impress your guests at a party.
15. Bitter Giuseppe
The Bitter Giuseppe is a cocktail that is perfect for those who enjoy complex, bitter flavors. Made with Italian amaro Cynar, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, and orange bitters, this cocktail originated at The Violet Hour in Chicago and has become a regular part of many cocktail rotations.
Its bitterness is balanced by the sweetness of the vermouth and the citrus notes of the lemon juice, making it a well-balanced drink. While it may not be for everyone, those who enjoy bitter flavors will appreciate the unique taste of the Bitter Giuseppe. So, if you're looking for a low-alcohol cocktail that packs a flavorful punch, give the Bitter Giuseppe a try.
16. Negroni Sbagliato
The Negroni Sbagliato is a sparkling take on the classic Negroni cocktail, made with Campari, Sweet Vermouth, and Prosecco instead of Dry Gin. The accidental creation of this cocktail has led to a unique and dazzling drink that has gained a massive new fanbase and some well-deserved attention.
The lower-ABV version of the Negroni is perfect for those who prefer a lighter drink, with the Prosecco adding a refreshing and bubbly touch to the bittersweet flavors of Campari and Vermouth. The Negroni Sbagliato is a must-try for anyone looking for a new twist on a classic cocktail.
