What is Vermouth?
‘What is Vermouth?’ is a question many wine lovers will ask at some point on their wine journey. Is it a spirit? Is it a wine? Skin + Pulp guest writer Jenni Allen tastes a selection of Vermouths from González Byass and finds out.
If you like a Negroni, or a Martini you’ll be familiar with Vermouth.
After spending some time at the back of our supermarket shelves, Vermouth’s complex flavours and natural ingredients have ignited its revival, alongside that of its juniper-based cousin, gin.
Not just a classic cocktail ingredient but also enjoyed neat over ice, Vermouth has a past steeped in history. Going all the way back to 580 BC where the cool cats like Pythagoras and Hippocrates were enjoying herb-infused wine.
Vermouth is a fortified wine (alcohol levels of between 14% - 18%) which is infused with many herbs and spices. These include wormwood (also found in absinthe), cloves and cinnamon as well as citrus skins.
These 3 bottles of Vermouth are by González Byass (you may recognise these guys as big players in the Sherry world). Their production of Vermouth goes back to Victorian times, the recipe is kept under lock and key, and is considered one of the best kept secrets in the drinks world.
La Copa Rojo: A spicy red Vermouth infused with orange peel, cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg.
Cocktail suggestion: Torino
Pour 30ml Campari and 30ml Vermouth La Copa Rojo over ice cubes. Top with fizzy water and garnish with an orange slice.
La Copa Blanco: Made with young Fino Sherry with a burst of citrus and wormwood.
Cocktail suggestion: The Bamboo
Place crushed ice in a glass and pour over 40ml Vermouth La Copa Blanco and 40ml Fino Sherry.
La Copa Blanco Extra Seco: Extra dry Vermouth, infused with an addition of red fruits giving a balance of sweet and sour on the finish. Higher in alcohol than the other 2, it’s great for a Martini!
Cocktail suggestion: Reverse Martini
Stir 20ml gin and 60ml Vermouth La Copa Extra Seconds over ice - strain into a glass and garnish with a lemon twist.
Find out more about the González Byass Vermouth range here. The cocktails were courtesy of @the_natebrown.
Jenni’s on Instagram at @oliveandthevine and you can find out more about her virtual wine tasting events on her website www.oliveandthevine.co.uk.