Vermut, also known as Vermouth, is a fortified wine that has been infused with various botanicals, such as herbs, spices, and roots. It is often enjoyed as an aperitif, either on its own or in a cocktail. In this intermediate guide, we’ll explore the world of vermut, including how to taste, pair, and serve this delicious beverage.
Tasting Vermut
To fully appreciate the nuances of vermut, it’s important to taste it properly. Here are some steps to follow:
Pour the vermut into a glass. The traditional glass for vermut is a stemmed glass called a catavinos, but any wine glass will do.
Swirl the vermut in the glass to release its aromas. Take a moment to inhale the scent.
Take a small sip of the vermut, letting it sit in your mouth for a moment before swallowing. Pay attention to the flavors and the mouthfeel.
Take another sip, this time paying attention to the aftertaste.
Vermut can range from sweet to dry, and the flavor profile can be quite complex, depending on the botanicals used. Some popular brands of vermut include Martini & Rossi, Cinzano, and Carpano.
Pairing Vermut
Vermut is a versatile beverage that can be paired with a variety of foods. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Cheese: Vermut pairs well with many types of cheese, including aged cheddar, gouda, and manchego.
Charcuterie: A plate of cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami, and chorizo, is the perfect accompaniment to vermut.
Olives: Vermut and olives are a classic pairing. Try a variety of olives, such as kalamata, green, and stuffed.
Seafood: Vermut’s herbaceous flavors pair well with seafood, especially shellfish such as oysters and clams.
Tapas: Vermut is often enjoyed in Spain as part of a tapas spread. Try pairing it with dishes like patatas bravas, croquetas, and grilled octopus.
Serving Vermut: Now that you know how to taste and pair vermut, it’s time to explore how to serve it. Here are some tips to ensure that you’re serving vermut like a pro:
Chill it: Vermut is best served chilled, so be sure to keep your bottle in the refrigerator. You can also serve it over ice, but be aware that this can dilute the flavors.
Garnish it: Adding a garnish to your vermut can enhance the flavors and make it more visually appealing. Some popular garnishes include citrus peels, olives, and herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Choose the right glass: As mentioned earlier, the traditional glass for vermut is a catavinos. However, a wine glass or even a tumbler will work just fine.
Mix it up: Vermut is a key ingredient in many classic cocktails, such as the Manhattan and the Negroni. Experiment with different recipes to find your favorite vermut cocktail.
Store it properly: Once opened, vermut should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a few weeks. To extend its shelf life, you can also transfer it to a smaller bottle to reduce the amount of air in the bottle.
In conclusion, vermut is a complex and versatile beverage that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you prefer it on its own or in a cocktail, taking the time to taste, pair, and serve it properly will help you appreciate all of its unique flavors and aromas. Salut!
