Sweet Vermouth is a versatile and complex fortified wine that has been a staple in the world of cocktails for centuries. Its rich, herbal flavor profile adds depth and complexity to a wide range of drinks, making it a go-to ingredient for bartenders worldwide.
Whether you're looking for a classic Manhattan or a modern twist on a Negroni, Sweet Vermouth is an essential component that can elevate any cocktail.
But with so many different Sweet Vermouth Cocktail recipes out there, it can be challenging to know where to start.
From the classic Martini to the lesser-known Boulevardier, there are countless ways to incorporate this delicious wine into your cocktail creations. Each recipe has its unique flavor profile, and the right combination of ingredients can make all the difference.
As a bartender, I've spent years experimenting with different Sweet Vermouth Cocktail recipes, and I've come to appreciate the nuances of this classic ingredient. In this blog post, I'll be sharing some of my favorite Sweet Vermouth Cocktail recipes, along with tips and tricks for creating the perfect drink.
Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a cocktail novice, you'll find plenty of inspiration here to take your home bartending game to the next level. So, grab a bottle of Sweet Vermouth and get ready to mix up some delicious drinks!
1. Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail
The Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail is a sophisticated and complex drink that exudes all the cozy feelings of fall and winter. It's a unique blend of sweet and spicy bourbon, apple cider, and a secret ingredient – sweet red vermouth. The vermouth adds just the right complexity to the drink, making it both dry and sweet at once.
With every sip, you'll taste the apple cider on the front end, the vermouth in the middle, and the spicy bourbon on the back end. If you're looking for a drink that's intriguing, complex, and highly drinkable, the Apple Cider Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try.
2. Americano Cocktail
The Americano Cocktail is a classic Italian cocktail made with sweet vermouth, Campari, and a hint of secret ingredient. It is bright, citrusy, and perfect for summertime sipping.
The addition of soda water gives it lovely bubbles and makes it easier to enjoy. The use of a blood orange slice adds a fresh and unique flavor to the drink. It is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing sweet vermouth cocktail.
3. Sweet Martini
The Sweet Martini is a classic cocktail recipe that has been overshadowed by its dry counterpart, the Dry Martini. However, this lost classic is worth rediscovering. Made with sweet vermouth and old Tom gin, this cocktail has a smooth finish and herbal flavors that are sure to please any palate.
It may seem like an oxymoron to modern cocktail lovers, but the original Martini was actually sweet. The addition of a maraschino cherry adds a touch of sweetness to this cocktail. While some prefer to enjoy it after dinner, it can be enjoyed anytime. If you're looking for a classic cocktail with a twist, the Sweet Martini is definitely worth a try.
4. Manhattan
Manhattan is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. It's a sophisticated drink that is perfect for sipping on a cozy evening. The cocktail is made with sweet vermouth, bourbon, and bitters. It's a simple recipe, but the combination of ingredients creates a complex flavor that is both sweet and spicy.
The Manhattan is a drink that is perfect for those who enjoy a bold and flavorful cocktail. It's a great choice for those who want to try something new, but still want to stick with a classic recipe. If you're a fan of sweet vermouth cocktails, the Manhattan is definitely worth trying.
5. Perfect Manhattan Cocktail
The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a classic drink that every whiskey lover should try. With a rich history dating back to the 1870s, this cocktail has stood the test of time and remains a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts. Made with bourbon, sweet vermouth, bitters, and cherry juice, this cocktail is easy to make and perfect for enjoying with friends.
The combination of sweet and bitter flavors makes for a well-balanced drink that is sure to impress. If you're looking for a sophisticated cocktail to serve at your next gathering, the Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
6. The Martinez
If you're looking for a classic cocktail that's not too sweet, not too bitter, and perfectly balanced, then you should definitely try "The Martinez". This cocktail is an old drink that predates the Martini and is made with Old Tom gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and a few dashes of bitters. The result is a drink that's similar to a Manhattan but with a gin twist.
The Old Tom gin gives the cocktail a sweeter and fuller-bodied taste, while the vermouth and bitters add a hint of warm spices and fruitiness. It's a drink that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. So, if you're looking for a new cocktail to try, give "The Martinez" a shot. You won't be disappointed.
7. Roaring Rob Roy Cocktail
The Roaring Rob Roy Cocktail is a twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, made with scotch instead of whiskey and sweet vermouth. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy the smoky flavor of scotch, with a hint of sweetness from the vermouth and a touch of bitterness from the bitters.
Garnished with a maraschino cherry, this cocktail is not only delicious but also visually appealing with its frosty glass. Whether you're a scotch enthusiast or just looking for a new cocktail to try, the Roaring Rob Roy is definitely worth adding to your list.
8. The Manhattan
If you're looking for a classic cocktail that's stood the test of time, look no further than The Manhattan. This timeless drink has been around since the late 19th century and is still a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts today. Made with high-proof whiskey and sweet vermouth, this spirit-forward drink is perfect for sipping on a cozy evening.
The key to a good Manhattan is using quality ingredients, such as Cocchi Vermouth di Torino or Dolin sweet vermouth, and skipping the artificial maraschino cherries in favor of Luxardo cherries or homemade cocktail cherries. Whether you prefer it served up or on the rocks, The Manhattan is a must-try for any cocktail lover.
9. Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan Cocktail is a classic cocktail made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It's a smooth and aromatic blend of flavors with a touch of sweetness. The original recipe dates back to the late 1800s in New York City and has remained unchanged ever since.
The sweet vermouth balances the strong whiskey perfectly and the bitters add a bittersweet taste to the cocktail. It's a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it's a quiet dinner at home or a night out with friends.
10. Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect addition to any fall or winter gathering. This cocktail features a balanced blend of sweet and tart flavors from cranberry and orange juice, with a hint of complexity from sweet vermouth. The unsweetened cranberry juice adds a natural tartness to the cocktail, while the bourbon provides a warm and cozy finish.
This cocktail is perfect for those who love a fruity yet boozy drink. It's a great option for Thanksgiving dinner or a Christmas party, and can easily be made in a pitcher for larger gatherings. Overall, the Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and unique bourbon cocktail.
11. Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a vintage cocktail that has recently gained popularity due to the resurgence of whiskey. It is made with bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth, resulting in a bitter and complex flavor profile. The cocktail dates back to 1927 and is a classic that should be tried by any whiskey lover.
The recipe can be adjusted to personal taste, with some preferring a stronger bourbon flavor. It is important to note that the Boulevardier is a bitter drink and may take some getting used to, but it is worth it for the unique and delicious taste. Give it a try and see why this cocktail has stood the test of time.
12. Añejo Manhattan
The Añejo Manhattan is a modern twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, featuring Añejo tequila instead of whiskey. The aged tequila brings a unique blend of salty earthiness, caramel, and vanilla flavors that perfectly complement the sweet vermouth and bitters. This cocktail is a must-try for tequila lovers who want to experience the spirit in a new way.
Whether you prefer it served up in a stemmed glass or on the rocks in a rocks glass, the Añejo Manhattan is a sophisticated and delicious cocktail that is sure to impress. So, if you're looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy tequila, give the Añejo Manhattan a try!
13. Americano
The Americano is a classic cocktail that has been around since the 1860s. Originally called the "Milano-Torino," it was renamed due to its popularity with American ex-pats. This bittersweet cocktail has fruity notes of cherry and grape, with the two liquors balancing each other out nicely.
The addition of soda water reduces the sweetness, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a drier cocktail. While it may not be for everyone, the complex flavor of the Americano is sure to grow on you over time. If you're looking for a unique and sophisticated cocktail, the Americano is definitely worth a try.
14. Bourbon Manhattan
The Bourbon Manhattan is a classic cocktail that swaps out the traditional rye whiskey for smooth and sweet bourbon. This 2-ingredient drink, along with bitters and sweet vermouth, is a perfect match for the notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel in bourbon.
The cocktail is garnished with a Luxardo cherry, adding a complex, fruity, and nutty flavor to the mix. A mid-range blended bourbon is recommended for this cocktail, making it an easy and accessible option for bourbon lovers. The sophistication and complexity of the Bourbon Manhattan make it a perfect sipping cocktail for any occasion.
15. Boulevardier Cocktail
The Boulevardier Cocktail is a classic prohibition-era cocktail that is perfect for winter. Made with whiskey instead of gin, this three-ingredient cocktail is the perfect choice for those who love Negroni but want to try something new. The cocktail was created by American-born writer, Erskine Gwynne, who founded a monthly magazine in Paris called Boulevardier.
This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves whiskey-based cocktails and wants to experience a classic prohibition-era drink. So, if you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try this winter, the Boulevardier Cocktail is definitely worth a shot.
16. Martinez Cocktail
The Martinez Cocktail is a sophisticated and balanced drink that combines gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and bitters. It's a perfect blend of a martini and a Manhattan, making it a unique and charming cocktail that is sure to impress any guest.
The amber-colored drink is a cozy and approachable cocktail that makes you feel like you're doing something right just by sipping it. It's a fun twist on a gin cocktail that presents itself as a whiskey cocktail, adding to its intrigue and appeal. If you're looking for a classic cocktail that is both sophisticated and approachable, the Martinez Cocktail is a must-try.
17. Aperol Negroni
The Aperol Negroni is a unique twist on a classic cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. Made with equal parts gin, Aperol, and sweet vermouth, this cocktail is a beautiful orange color and has a slightly sweeter taste than the traditional Negroni.
Aperol, with its notes of orange, herbs, and vanilla, adds a unique flavor to the cocktail that is sure to delight your taste buds. The cocktail is easy to make and can be garnished with an orange peel for an added touch of elegance. If you're looking for a cocktail that is both beautiful and delicious, the Aperol Negroni is definitely worth a try.
18. Hanky Panky
The Hanky Panky is a classic sweet gin martini that combines Fernet-Branca, gin, and sweet vermouth to create a charming and complex flavor. The herbal notes of the Fernet-Branca are complimented by the botanical gin and sweet vermouth, making it a bittersweet slow sipper that is perfect for those who enjoy a balanced drink.
It's easy to make at home and can be served in a coupe glass or glass tumbler, garnished with a fresh orange twist or ribbon. If you're looking for a sophisticated cocktail that will impress your tastebuds, the Hanky Panky is a must-try.
19. Cherry Manhattan
The Cherry Manhattan is a delightful twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail. Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, this cocktail is garnished with a maraschino cherry and a homemade cherry simple syrup. The addition of the cherry syrup elevates the drink to a whole new level, adding a sweet and fruity flavor that perfectly complements the whiskey.
While the Luxardo maraschino cherries are recommended, any cherry garnish will do. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new while still enjoying a classic cocktail. Give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself!
20. Negroni
The Negroni is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century. It is a perfect blend of bitter and sweet flavors that makes it an excellent aperitif. The cocktail comprises three ingredients – Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth – mixed in equal quantities.
The Negroni's unique taste is attributed to Campari, a bright red, bitter Italian aperitif. The cocktail's origin story adds to its charm, as it was invented in Florence, Italy, when a patron asked for a stronger version of an Americano cocktail. The Negroni is a perfect cocktail for those who enjoy a bittersweet taste and want to try something new.
21. Rob Roy
The Rob Roy is a classic cocktail similar to a Manhattan, but with a Scottish twist. It's made with sweet vermouth and Scotch whiskey, giving it a unique flavor profile and reddish hue.
The balance between sweetness and smokiness makes it a perfect choice for sipping and relaxing. If you're looking for a sophisticated cocktail to impress your guests, the Rob Roy is definitely worth a try.
22. Spanish Tinto De Verano
The Spanish Tinto De Verano is a refreshing wine spritzer cocktail made with red wine, sweet vermouth, and orange and lemon or lime soda. It evolved from a popular drink in Spain and is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day.
Use an inexpensive Rioja or Tempranillo wine and add sweet vermouth for an herbaceous and bittering note. It's a fun and easy cocktail to make at home and is perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying on your own.
23. Bitter Giuseppe
The Bitter Giuseppe is a unique and complex cocktail that is perfect for those who enjoy bitter flavors. Made with Italian amaro Cynar, sweet vermouth, lemon juice, and orange bitters, this cocktail has a distinct herbaceous taste that is balanced by the sweetness of the vermouth.
While the bitterness of the Cynar may not be for everyone, those who enjoy coffee or grapefruit will appreciate the unique flavor profile of this cocktail. Originating from the popular Chicago cocktail bar, The Violet Hour, the Bitter Giuseppe is a great choice for an aperitif or a slow-sipping cocktail. If you're looking for a low-alcohol option that won't leave you with a hangover, this cocktail is definitely worth a try.
