By Nicole Eacuello

I’ve recently been on a vermouth kick – enjoying and exploring as many labels as I can get my hands on. For those not familiar, it’s a fortified wine that has been flavored with an assortment of herbs, spices, and botanicals. While there are many variations and styles of vermouth, the two that are most recognized are sweet and dry. 

Dry vermouth originated in France, and is typically bursting with soft floral notes. It’s is most notably used in crafting a martini. 

Sweet vermouth originated in Italy, and is sweeter, spiced, and delightfully herbal. You’ll find this style used in a Manhattan, or my personal favorite, a Negroni. 

That being said, vermouth has enough structure, body and complexity to be the star of its own show. Next time you find yourself seeking an aperitivo, reach for the vermouth! You can enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of soda – garnished with a citrus peel, of course – or really shake things up and add in some muddled fruit. 

Shop some of my favorite vermouths below and let me know how you jazz them up. Cheers!

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