What makes vermouth dry

Sweet vermouth usually comes from Italy, is sweet, spiced, and herbal, and is used in cocktails like Manhattans and negronis. Dry and sweet vermouths are also enjoyed as an aperitif. Since vermouth is a fortified wine, it is slightly high in alcohol when compared to non-fortified wine.

Every vermouth recipe is slightly different, though there are two main styles: dry vermouth and sweet vermouth. The two are typically used for different applications. Dry vermouth is also known as white vermouth or French vermouth. It is often clear or very pale yellow in color. The name "dry" signifies its flavor profile and it often contains just 5 percent sugar. Its blend of botanicals pairs well with gin to make classic martinis. Sweet vermouth is also known as red vermouth or Italian vermouth thanks to its color and origin.

It has a significantly sweeter profile than dry vermouth and can include up to 15 percent sugar. While it is sweet, it's not as intense as sweet liqueurs like amaretto. Sweet vermouth can also have a notable vanilla aroma mixed with notes of spice and herbs, making it a perfect pair with dark spirits like whiskey and brandy. Although it is most common to see red sweet vermouth, a white version—labeled as bianco or blanc— is also produced.

The aromas and flavors in vermouth can vary widely depending on the style and maker. Dry vermouths are light-bodied and low in tannins and can have a floral, herbal, and fruity nose and flavor profile with a bracingly dry finish. Sweet vermouths are often medium-bodied with some tannins and tend to exhibit dark fruits, spice, vanilla, caramel, cocoa, and herbs. Some are spicier, some are more floral, some are nearly as bitter as amari.

All vermouths are made from a base of wine fortified with neutral alcohol and infused with various herbs, roots, citruses, and barks. Vermouth bianco, also known as vermouth blanc depending on its country of origin, falls somewhere between sweet and dry vermouth in terms of sweetness. Or, as always, you can do it the old-fashioned way and come by the store to speak with one of our in-house experts.

Web Design by Sleepless Media. Powered by Shopify. Menu Cart. Continue Shopping Your Cart is Empty. The O. Although today, sweet red vermouth is a common cocktail ingredient, probably best known for its place in our beloved Manhattan. Dry and white vermouth came in the early 19th century, courtesy of French producer Dolin.

A quick point of clarification: all dry vermouth is white, but not all white vermouth is dry.