Vermouth

Vermouth is a fortified wine infused with various botanicals such as herbs, spices, and roots. Originating from Italy and France, its two primary styles are sweet (rosso) and dry. Sweet vermouth, popular in Italy, is typically red, rich, and slightly bitter, with added sugar or caramel syrup for sweetness. Dry vermouth, mainly produced in France, is paler and more bitter, without the sweetness.

The scent profile of vermouth includes a complex and aromatic array of botanicals. Common notes include wormwood, which is fundamental to its herbaceous and slightly bitter aroma. Depending on the blend, other herbs like chamomile, juniper, and sage, and spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and clove can also be perceived. It often has citrus undertones from the addition of citrus peel. The dry version typically possesses a sharper, more pronounced herbal and floral bouquet, whereas the sweet version features richer, spicier notes that might remind one of fruits like orange or prune, complemented by a warm sweetness. The exact aromatic composition varies widely across different brands and recipes, making each vermouth unique in its olfactory signature.