The best sweet vermouth is a must-have staple in any refined gentleman's liquor cabinet. This fortified and aromatised wine, originating from Italy, has gained popularity worldwide for its complexity and versatility. Sweet vermouth, with its rich, herbal flavours, serves as a key ingredient in many classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Negroni. It can also be enjoyed on its own over ice, making it a versatile addition to any drinks collection. The artistry involved in crafting sweet vermouth involves a meticulous blend of botanicals, spices, and fortified wine, resulting in a unique taste profile that is both captivating and luxurious. In this article, we will explore some of the best sweet vermouth brands available today, each offering a distinct blend that showcases their unique expertise. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or a vermouth connoisseur, these selections will enhance your understanding and appreciation of this exquisite spirit.
The best sweet vermouth
Carpano Antica Formula
Carpano Antica Formula is often regarded as the gold standard of sweet vermouths. Created in 1786 by Antonio Benedetto Carpano, this iconic vermouth has stood the test of time. Its rich, vanilla-forward profile is balanced with hints of cocoa, citrus, and spices, making it a favourite among bartenders and cocktail aficionados. The use of high-quality botanicals and a secret family recipe give Carpano Antica Formula its unique, complex character. Perfect for a classic Negroni or Manhattan, Carpano Antica Formula is a timeless choice for those seeking the best sweet vermouth.
Cocchi Vermouth di Torino
Cocchi Vermouth di Torino is a renowned Italian sweet vermouth that has been produced since 1891. This vermouth is celebrated for its traditional Piedmontese recipe, which includes a blend of local wines, herbs, and spices. The result is a well-balanced vermouth with notes of red fruit, cocoa, and bitter orange. Its smooth, rich flavour profile makes it an excellent choice for sipping neat or as a component in sophisticated cocktails. Cocchi Vermouth di Torino embodies the elegance and heritage of Italian vermouth-making, making it one of the best vermouths available.
Dolin Rouge
Dolin Rouge, hailing from Chambéry, France, is a classic sweet vermouth that dates back to 1821. Known for its lighter style, Dolin Rouge is crafted using a blend of Alpine herbs and local wines. Its flavour profile is marked by notes of prune, cinnamon, and clove, with a subtle bitterness that balances its sweetness. Dolin Rouge is an ideal choice for those who appreciate a more delicate vermouth, making it a versatile option for cocktails like the Boulevardier or enjoyed on its own over ice. Its refined, complex character makes it a standout among the best sweet vermouths.
Punt e Mes
Punt e Mes is a unique sweet vermouth from the makers of Carpano that combines the bitterness of an amaro with the sweetness of vermouth. Its name, which translates to "point and a half," refers to its flavour profile that is one part sweet and half a part bitter. Punt e Mes is infused with a variety of botanicals, including orange peel and wormwood, giving it a distinctively rich and complex taste. It adds depth and complexity to cocktails like the Americano and Negroni, making it a must-try for those seeking the best sweet vermouth with a twist.
Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Rubino
Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Rubino is a premium vermouth that showcases the brand's dedication to craftsmanship and quality. This vermouth is made using a blend of Italian wines and rare botanicals, including Langhe Nebbiolo and red sandalwood. The result is a rich, full-bodied vermouth with notes of cherry, vanilla, and spices. Its bold, elegant character makes it an excellent choice for classic cocktails or as an aperitif. Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Rubino is a testament to the brand’s expertise in creating some of the best sweet vermouth on the market.
Vya Sweet Vermouth
Vya Sweet Vermouth, crafted in California’s Central Valley, offers a modern twist on the traditional vermouth. It is made using a blend of premium wines and a selection of over seventeen herbs and spices. Vya Sweet Vermouth is known for its warm, spicy aroma and complex flavour profile, which includes notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and dried fruit. Its rich, velvety texture makes it a versatile choice for both cocktails and sipping neat. Vya Sweet Vermouth is a testament to the innovation and creativity of American vermouth makers, securing its place among the best sweet vermouths.
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