18 Best Vermouth Cocktails You Should Definitely Try

Vermouth is so much more than just a Martini ingredient. It has made a well-deserved comeback, finding its way into bars and home cocktail menus alike. Whether you enjoy the classics or prefer experimenting with modern recipes, vermouth can take your drinks to the next level.

The best vermouth cocktails strike a perfect balance of flavors, whether you lean toward something dry and crisp or rich and sweet. Maybe you're craving a bold Negroni or something lighter like a refreshing Spritz. Whatever your preference, there is a vermouth cocktail for you.

Ready to explore something new? Let’s dive into some of the most popular vermouth cocktails that will impress your guests and elevate your mixology skills. From timeless favorites to creative new takes, you are about to discover how versatile this ingredient truly is.

What Is Vermouth?

Vermouth is a fortified wine that has been around since the 18th century. It started in Turin, Italy, and has earned its place as a key ingredient in many classic cocktails.

You’ll come across different types of vermouth, each bringing its own character to your drinks. Sweet, dry, blanc, rosé, and amber vermouth all have distinct flavors to explore.

Sweet vermouth is rich and spicy with hints of caramel, while dry vermouth delivers a crisp, herbal taste with subtle floral notes.

When you add vermouth to a cocktail, it does more than just blend in. It adds depth and complexity, turning a basic drink into something sophisticated.

Here’s a tip: once you open your vermouth, keep it in the fridge. This helps preserve its delicate flavors and aromas so you can enjoy it at its best.

Vermouth isn’t just for cocktails. Pour it over ice, add a twist of citrus, and you’ve got a refreshing low-alcohol option, perfect for warm evenings.

Next time you’re making a Martini or Negroni, pay attention to the vermouth. You’ll see how it transforms the drink, creating layers of flavor that take it to a whole new level.

18 Best Vermouth Cocktails

Vermouth cocktails offer a world of flavors, from classic to creative. These drinks showcase the versatility of this fortified wine, pairing it with various spirits and mixers.

Martini

The Martini stands as the king of vermouth cocktails. You'll love its crisp, clean taste and elegant presentation.

To make a classic Martini, mix gin or vodka with dry vermouth. Garnish with olives or a lemon twist. The ratio of spirit to vermouth can vary based on your preference.

Try different styles like wet, dry, or dirty Martinis. A wet Martini has more vermouth, while a dry one uses less. For a dirty Martini, add a splash of olive brine.

The key to a perfect Martini is finding the right balance. Start with a 3:1 ratio of gin to vermouth and adjust to your taste.

Negroni

The Negroni is a beloved Italian aperitif with a rich history. Its bold flavors will wake up your taste buds.

Mix equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari to create this classic cocktail. Stir the ingredients with ice and strain into a glass. Garnish with an orange peel.

The Negroni's bitter-sweet taste comes from the Campari. It balances perfectly with the herbal notes of gin and the sweetness of vermouth.

For a twist, try a Negroni Sbagliato. Replace the gin with sparkling wine for a lighter, bubbly version. Or swap gin for mezcal to add a smoky flavor.

Manhattan

The Manhattan is a timeless cocktail that showcases sweet vermouth. It's perfect for sipping on cool evenings.

Mix rye or bourbon whiskey with sweet vermouth and a dash of Angostura bitters. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a cherry.

The Manhattan's warm, spiced flavor comes from the whiskey and bitters. The vermouth adds sweetness and depth to balance the drink.

Try variations like the Rob Roy, which uses Scotch instead of American whiskey. Or make a Grand Manhattan by adding a splash of orange liqueur.

You might also like: Black Manhattan Cocktail Recipe | Manhattan vs. Old Fashioned Cocktail

Boulevardier

The Boulevardier is like a whiskey lover's Negroni. It's smooth, rich, and perfect for cold weather sipping.

Mix equal parts bourbon or rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari. Stir with ice and strain into a glass. Garnish with an orange twist.

The whiskey in a Boulevardier adds warmth and depth to the drink. It balances the bitterness of Campari and the sweetness of vermouth.

This cocktail is great for those who find a Negroni too bitter. The whiskey softens the edges while keeping the complex flavors.

Americano

The Americano is a light, refreshing vermouth cocktail. It's perfect for warm days or as a low-alcohol option.

Mix equal parts sweet vermouth and Campari in a tall glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and garnish with an orange slice.

The Americano is actually the predecessor to the Negroni. It's less strong but still has a nice bitter-sweet flavor.

This drink is great for introducing people to vermouth cocktails. It's less intense than a Negroni but still has complex flavors.

Martinez

The Martinez is often called the father of the Martini. It's a sweet, complex cocktail with a rich history.

Mix gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and a dash of bitters. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

The Martinez is sweeter than a Martini due to the sweet vermouth and maraschino liqueur. But it still has a nice herbal kick from the gin.

To perfect this drink, use a high-quality sweet vermouth. The vermouth is a key player in the flavor profile.

Old Pal

The Old Pal is like a drier version of the Boulevardier. It's perfect for those who prefer less sweetness in their drinks.

Mix equal parts rye whiskey, dry vermouth, and Campari. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

The dry vermouth in this cocktail makes it less sweet than a Boulevardier. It lets the spiciness of the rye whiskey shine through.

This drink is great for whiskey lovers who want to branch out. It's complex and balanced, with a nice bitter edge.

Vieux Carré

The Vieux Carré is a New Orleans classic named after the French Quarter. It's rich, complex, and perfect for slow sipping.

Mix rye whiskey, Cognac, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, and bitters. Stir with ice and strain into a glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

This cocktail has a lot going on, but all the flavors work together beautifully. The sweet vermouth ties everything together.

The Vieux Carré is great with rich foods or as an after-dinner drink. Its complex flavors unfold as you sip.

Hanky Panky

The Hanky Panky is a sophisticated cocktail with a bold twist. It's perfect for adventurous drinkers.

Mix gin, sweet vermouth, and a small amount of Fernet Branca. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with an orange twist.

The Fernet Branca gives this drink a unique, herbal bitterness. It balances nicely with the sweetness of the vermouth.

This cocktail is not for the faint of heart. But if you like bold flavors, you'll love the Hanky Panky.

You might also like: What is Fernet? | Best Fernet Branca Cocktails

Harvard

The Harvard is an elegant cocktail that deserves more attention. It blends cognac, sweet vermouth, and bitters to create a rich, smooth drink with hints of spice and sweetness.

To make one, mix cognac, sweet vermouth, and a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass. For a lighter touch, add a splash of soda water.

This cocktail is a sophisticated alternative to whiskey-based classics, perfect for cozy evenings with its balanced flavor profile.

Global Gibson

The Global Gibson offers a savory spin on the classic Martini, with a bold and intriguing umami flavor.

Combine gin and dry vermouth, stir with ice, and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a pickled onion to give it that signature Gibson twist.

This drink is perfect for Martini fans who want something unique. The pickled onion adds a tangy kick that pairs beautifully with the gin and vermouth.

Vermouth Spritz

For a refreshing, low-alcohol option, the Vermouth Spritz is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to make and ideal for daytime sipping or as an aperitif.

Pour sweet or dry vermouth over ice in a wine glass, top with soda water, and garnish with a slice of citrus.

You can make this drink your own by experimenting with flavored sodas, adding fresh herbs like mint or basil, or muddling berries for a fruity twist.

Bobby Burns

Scotch lovers will enjoy the Bobby Burns, a warm and rich cocktail that combines Scotch whisky, sweet vermouth, and Benedictine.

Mix the ingredients, stir with ice, and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon to complete the drink.

This cocktail’s smoky, sweet, and herbal notes create a perfect sipper for cool evenings or a relaxing after-dinner treat.

Red Hook Cocktail

The Red Hook is bold and bittersweet, offering an exciting twist for Manhattan fans.

Combine rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Maraschino liqueur. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass.

You’ll love how this cocktail balances sweet, spicy, and herbal flavors. The Maraschino adds a unique cherry note that enhances the rye and vermouth beautifully.

Jersey Lightning

Jersey Lightning brings fruity, spiced notes to the vermouth cocktail scene, making it an excellent choice for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations.

Blend apple brandy, sweet vermouth, and a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass.

This drink’s fresh and spiced profile offers a creative twist on traditional whiskey cocktails, highlighting vermouth’s versatility.

Soft Arms

For a light and elegant option, the Soft Arms is a wonderful choice. It’s a low-alcohol cocktail that works perfectly as an aperitif or paired with lighter meals.

Combine dry Riesling and dry vermouth in a wine glass over ice. Stir gently and garnish with a twist of lemon.

This drink is crisp and refreshing, making it ideal for warm afternoons or as a palate cleanser between courses.

Chrysanthemum Cocktail

The Chrysanthemum Cocktail is a vintage gem with a sophisticated blend of floral and herbal notes.

Mix dry vermouth, Benedictine, and a few dashes of absinthe. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with an orange twist for a fragrant finish.

Its bittersweet complexity is perfect for those who love aromatic cocktails and want to try something unique.

Caprese Martini

For a truly unique, savory experience, the Caprese Martini offers a Mediterranean-inspired twist that’s sure to spark conversation.

Combine dry vermouth, balsamic vinegar, and tomato water. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a fresh basil leaf for an aromatic touch.

This innovative cocktail surprises with its savory and tangy flavors, showcasing vermouth’s versatility in ways you might not expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does vermouth taste like?

Vermouth has a complex flavor profile that varies depending on the style. Sweet vermouth offers rich, herbal notes with a subtle sweetness. It often has hints of spices and sometimes fruit.

Dry vermouth tastes crisp and lightly bitter. You'll notice herbal flavors similar to a dry white wine. Some less common styles, like blanc vermouth, have floral and sweeter notes.

What is the difference between sweet and dry vermouth?

Sweet vermouth is usually red and has a richer flavor with more sweetness. You'll use it in cocktails like Manhattans and Negronis.

Dry vermouth is typically white and has a crisper, less sweet taste. It's a key ingredient in Martinis and other light aperitifs.

Italian vermouth tends to be sweet, while French vermouth is often dry. Keep this in mind when choosing for your cocktails.

Which vermouth is best for cocktails?

For rich, whiskey-based drinks like Manhattans, sweet vermouth is your go-to. Dry vermouth works best in lighter cocktails such as Martinis or Vermouth Spritz.

Quality matters, so choose reputable brands like Martini & Rossi, Dolin, or Noilly Prat. Fresh vermouth is crucial for the best flavor in your drinks.

Can you drink vermouth straight?

Yes, you can sip vermouth on its own as an aperitif. Try sweet vermouth over ice with an orange slice or a splash of soda water.

Dry vermouth tastes great chilled or with a lemon twist. In Spain, people enjoy "vermut" served over ice with soda water and olives.

How should vermouth be stored after opening?

Store your opened vermouth in the fridge to keep it fresh. It will last about 1-3 months if properly sealed and refrigerated.

Watch for signs of spoilage like a sour or oxidized taste. To extend its life, transfer the vermouth to a smaller bottle to reduce air exposure.

What is the alcohol content of vermouth?

Most vermouth has an alcohol content between 16% and 18% ABV. This is lower than spirits like gin or whiskey, which are usually around 40% ABV.

The moderate alcohol level makes vermouth great for low-alcohol cocktails and aperitifs. You can enjoy its flavors without the strong punch of higher-proof spirits.