Sweet Vermouth

Sweet vermouth is a fortified, aromatized wine that brings herbal complexity and gentle sweetness to classic cocktails. Made by infusing wine with botanical blends including herbs, spices, and roots, sweet vermouth provides the perfect bridge between strong spirits and delicate flavors. Italian brands like Martini & Rossi and Carpano Antica Formula each offer unique flavor profiles that can transform cocktail character.

The rich, amber color and complex flavor profile of sweet vermouth includes notes of vanilla, caramel, herbs, and subtle bitterness that complement whiskey, gin, and rum perfectly. The moderate alcohol content and wine base provide body and mouthfeel while the botanical infusion adds aromatic complexity that elevates simple spirit-and-vermouth combinations.

Classic sweet vermouth cocktails include the Manhattan, where it balances rye whiskey's spice with herbal sweetness, and the Negroni, where it mediates between gin's botanicals and Campari's bitterness. The Rob Roy showcases how sweet vermouth enhances Scotch whisky, while the Boulevardier demonstrates its compatibility with bourbon and amaro.

Quality matters significantly with sweet vermouth. Premium brands offer more complex botanical blends and better balance between sweetness and herbal character. The wine base means vermouth deteriorates after opening, unlike spirits, so proper storage becomes essential for maintaining flavor quality.

Store opened sweet vermouth refrigerated and consume within 2-3 months for best flavor. Consider buying smaller bottles or half-bottles to ensure freshness. The refrigerated storage preserves the delicate wine base and prevents oxidation that can create off-flavors in cocktails.