VERMOUTH

What is vermouth?

Vermouth is a wine flavored with herbs, spices, and botanicals, with a recipe that usually includes wormwood, giving it its characteristic bitter taste. It can be made with white, red, or rosé wine and typically has an alcohol content between 14-22%.

Types of vermouth

Red vermouth: Sweeter and spicier, originating from Italy.
White vermouth: Drier and more floral, originating from France.
Dry vermouth: Lighter and bitter, key in cocktails like the Martini.
Rosé vermouth: Balanced between sweet and dry, with fruity notes.

Properties of vermouth

 Natural digestive: The botanicals stimulate digestion.
 Ideal appetizer: Its bitter taste opens the appetite.
 Antioxidants: The wine and herbs provide beneficial polyphenols.
 Versatility: Can be enjoyed neat, with soda, or in cocktails.

How to pair vermouth with food?

Vermouth is best enjoyed as an aperitif, but it can also accompany certain dishes:
Appetizers and tapas

• Olives and pickles: Perfect for enhancing its herbal notes.
• Nuts: Toasted almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts.
• Cured cheeses: Manchego, Parmesan, or blue cheese.
• Iberian cured meats: Ham, loin, chorizo, or salchichón.
   Main dishes
• Shellfish: Mussels, cockles, or garlic shrimp.
• Fatty fish: Anchovies, sardines, or white anchovies.
• Spicy dishes: Mild curry, stews with aromatic herbs.
   Desserts
• Red vermouth: With dark chocolate, fruit tart, or tiramisu.
• White or dry vermouth: With citrus sorbets or cheesecake.

 Spanish wine Designations of Origin:

• D.O.Ca. Rioja: High-quality red wines, aged in barrels.
• D.O. Ribera del Duero: Powerful reds, with Tempranillo grape as protagonist.
• D.O. Rueda: Famous for its white wine made from Verdejo grape.
• D.O. Priorat (D.O.Ca.): Intense red wines with great character.
• D.O. Jerez-Xérès-Sherry: Famous fortified wines like Fino and Pedro Ximénez.
• D.O. Cava: Sparkling wines made with traditional method, mainly in Catalonia.
• D.O. Albariño (Rías Baixas): Fresh and aromatic white wines from Galicia.