As a bartender, I have come across many drink recipes that have stood the test of time. Gin and sweet vermouth cocktails have been around for centuries, and they are still as popular as ever.
These cocktails are known for their simplicity, elegance, and versatility. They can be enjoyed at any time of the day or night, and they are perfect for any occasion.
The beauty of gin and sweet vermouth cocktails lies in their simplicity. They are made with just two ingredients, gin and sweet vermouth, which are then stirred with ice and strained into a glass.
The result is a smooth, flavorful drink that is easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Gin and sweet vermouth cocktails are also incredibly versatile. They can be made in many different ways, with different types of gin and vermouth, and with various garnishes and mixers.
This means that you can customize your drink to suit your taste and mood, and experiment with different flavors and combinations.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of the best gin and sweet vermouth cocktail recipes that I have come across in my years as a bartender. These recipes are tried and tested, and they are guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
So, whether you are a gin lover or a vermouth aficionado, or simply looking to try something new, read on to discover the best gin and sweet vermouth cocktail recipes.
1. The Not Negroni
"The Not Negroni" is a refreshing and bubbly twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. Instead of Campari, this cocktail uses Seekout's raspberry and Meyer lemon hard seltzer, which adds a layer of softness and complexity to the drink. The gin used in the recipe is Ransom's "highly malted" dry gin, although the prevailing wisdom suggests using a London dry gin like Tanqueray or Aviation.
The sweet vermouth used in the recipe is largely a matter of choice, with both fancy and inexpensive options available. This cocktail is perfect for those who love the taste of Campari but want to try something new. It's a great addition to any cocktail menu and is sure to impress your guests.
2. Ginger, Cardamom and Rosemary Gin Cocktail
The Ginger, Cardamom and Rosemary Gin Cocktail is a festive and seasonal drink that is perfect for any occasion. The cocktail features a unique combination of flavors, including rosemary-infused gin, ginger and cardamom syrup, lemon, and sweet vermouth.
The rosemary adds a subtle but distinct flavor to the gin, while the ginger and cardamom syrup provides a sweet and spicy kick. The lemon juice helps to balance out the sweetness, and the sweet vermouth adds an extra layer of complexity to the cocktail. This cocktail is a great choice for those who enjoy a well-crafted and complex drink, and it is sure to impress your guests.
3. Sweet Martini
The Sweet Martini is a classic cocktail recipe that has been overshadowed by its modern 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 and old Tom Gin, which was the rage in 17th century Britain.
The cocktail is traditionally served with a maraschino cherry, adding a touch of sweetness to the drink. While some may prefer to enjoy this cocktail after dinner, it can be enjoyed anytime based on personal preference. If you're looking for a classic cocktail with a twist, the Sweet Martini is definitely worth a try.
4. Italian Gin and Tonic
The Italian Gin and Tonic is a unique twist on the classic gin and tonic cocktail. This recipe includes vermouth and Campari, giving it a Negroni-like flavor. The combination of these ingredients creates a bright and refreshing taste, perfect for any season.
This cocktail is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its sparkling appearance. If you're looking to switch up your gin and tonic game, the Italian Gin and Tonic is definitely worth a try.
5. The Martinez
"The Martinez" is a classic gin and sweet vermouth cocktail that predates the Martini. It's made with Old Tom gin, which is aged in wine barrels, giving it a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and full-bodied.
The addition of maraschino liqueur and bitters adds a hint of warm spices and fruitiness to the drink. The Martinez is perfectly balanced and not too sweet, not too tart, not too bitter, not too light, and not too dark. It's a must-try for anyone who loves classic cocktails.
6. The Orange Blossom Gin Cocktail
The Orange Blossom Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for brunch or any time of day. This cocktail is a twist on the classic screwdriver, but with gin and a touch of vermouth. The addition of grenadine is optional, but it adds a nice sweetness and color to the drink.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can even make your own grenadine to add a unique flavor to the cocktail. Overall, The Orange Blossom Gin Cocktail is a simple yet delicious drink that is sure to please gin lovers and brunch enthusiasts alike.
7. Aperol Negroni
The Aperol Negroni is a unique twist on the classic Negroni cocktail. Instead of using Campari, this recipe calls for Aperol, a slightly sweeter Italian aperitif with notes of orange, herbs, and vanilla. The combination of equal parts gin, Aperol, and sweet vermouth creates a well-balanced and flavorful cocktail that is sure to impress.
Not only does it taste great, but the vibrant orange color also makes for a beautiful presentation. If you're a fan of Negronis or looking to try something new, the Aperol Negroni is definitely worth a try.
8. Hanky Panky Cocktail
The Hanky Panky Cocktail is a sophisticated and nuanced gin cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. It is a sweet gin martini that is perfectly balanced between sweet, bitter, and herbal flavors. The star of the cocktail is Fernet-Branca, an Italian bitter that adds an herbal punch to the drink.
The cocktail is named after Ada Coleman, a famous woman bartender in the 1920s who invented the drink for a famous actor. The Hanky Panky Cocktail is perfect for sipping and is a great addition to any cocktail party. It's definitely worth trying if you're looking for a complex and intriguing gin cocktail.
9. Negroni
The Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail made with equal parts gin, sweet red vermouth, and Campari. Served over ice and garnished with a twist of orange, it's a simple yet sophisticated drink with a perfect balance of bitter and sweet.
The story of its origin is intriguing, dating back to the early 1900s when Count Camillo Negroni requested his bartender to strengthen his favorite cocktail, the Americano, by replacing the soda water with gin. The Negroni is a must-try for any gin lover or cocktail enthusiast.
10. Classic Negroni
The Classic Negroni is a timeless Italian cocktail that has been around since the 1920s. It's a simple yet complex drink that's perfect for savoring before a meal or on a warm summer day. Made with equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, this cocktail is easy to make and easy to remember.
The bright red color of the Campari makes it a stunning drink that's sure to impress. The Negroni is a must-try for anyone who loves gin and is looking for a refreshing and bitter cocktail. Don't miss out on this classic cocktail that's sure to become a favorite.
11. Martinez Cocktail
The Martinez Cocktail is a classic gin and sweet vermouth cocktail that combines the flavors of a martini and a Manhattan. It's a cozy, balanced, and sophisticated drink that's approachable for all.
The unique combination of ingredients, including maraschino liqueur and bitters, gives it a charming and intriguing quality. If you're a gin lover looking to expand your cocktail repertoire, the Martinez Cocktail is a must-try.
12. Hanky Panky
The Hanky Panky cocktail is a must-try for gin lovers looking for a sophisticated and complex drink. Created by Ada Coleman in the 1920s, this sweet gin martini features Fernet-Branca, an Italian bitter, which adds an intriguing and herbal note to the cocktail. The combination of Fernet-Branca, gin, and sweet vermouth creates a bittersweet slow sipper that is easy to make at home and sure to impress your tastebuds.
This balanced drink is a perfect choice for those who enjoy a complex and layered flavor profile. The Hanky Panky is a classic cocktail with a fun name that has stood the test of time and is still enjoyed today. So, if you're looking for a sophisticated and intriguing gin cocktail, give the Hanky Panky a try.
13. Grilled Tangerine Frozen Negroni
The Grilled Tangerine Frozen Negroni is a unique spin on the classic Negroni cocktail that combines the bitter grapefruit notes of Campari and the herbal notes of gin and vermouth with the sweet caramelized citrus of grilled tangerine.
The tangerine adds a nice sweetness that smooths out the rough bitter edges of the Negroni, making this a refreshing and delicious sweet citrus slushie version of the Negroni. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting while still enjoying the classic flavors of a Negroni.
14. Espresso Negroni
The Espresso Negroni is a unique twist on the classic Negroni cocktail, with the addition of espresso for a bold and rich flavor. This cocktail is perfect for coffee lovers who also enjoy a good cocktail.
The combination of gin, sweet vermouth, and espresso creates a complex and layered taste that is sure to impress. Whether you're looking for a new cocktail to try or want to impress your guests at your next party, the Espresso Negroni is definitely worth a try.
15. The Tunnel Cocktail
If you're looking for a perfectly balanced and decidedly French cocktail, look no further than "The Tunnel Cocktail" from Cravan in Paris. This cocktail is Franck's take on the classic Negroni, using brisk gin, oaky dry vermouth, two kinds of sweet vermouth, and a pour of bitter Campari.
The ingredients come together to create a simple yet delicious cocktail that is sure to please any gin lover. Cravan is known for its high-quality cocktails and food, and "The Tunnel Cocktail" is no exception. Served in vintage glassware, this cocktail is a must-try for anyone visiting Paris.
