Martini (vermouth)

Martini (vermouth)

Martini is a brand of vermouth, a type of fortified wine that is flavored with various botanicals. It is widely known for its association with the classic cocktail, the Martini. In this article, we will explore the history, production process, and popular variations of Martini vermouth.

History

Martini vermouth was first created in 1863 by Alessandro Martini, Luigi Rossi, and Teofilo Sola in Turin, Italy. The company, originally known as Martini, Sola & Cia, began producing vermouth using a secret recipe that combined a selection of herbs, spices, and wines. Over the years, Martini vermouth gained popularity and became a staple ingredient in many classic cocktails.

Production Process

Martini vermouth is made by infusing a base wine with a blend of botanicals, which typically include herbs, spices, and fruits. The exact recipe and proportions of botanicals used in Martini vermouth are closely guarded secrets. After the infusion process, the vermouth is aged in oak barrels to develop its unique flavors and aromas.

Variations

Martini produces a range of vermouth variations to cater to different tastes and preferences. Some popular variations include:

• Martini Bianco: A sweet and aromatic white vermouth, often used in cocktails such as the White Negroni.
• Martini Rosso: A red vermouth with a rich and slightly bitter flavor, commonly used in classic cocktails like the Manhattan.
• Martini Extra Dry: A dry vermouth with a crisp and herbal profile, frequently used in the classic Martini cocktail.

Usage in Cocktails

Martini vermouth is a key ingredient in many classic cocktails. Some notable cocktails that feature Martini vermouth include:

• Martini Cocktail: A classic cocktail made with gin and dry vermouth, garnished with an olive or lemon twist.
• Negroni: A popular cocktail made with equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, garnished with an orange peel.
• Manhattan: A timeless cocktail made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, typically garnished with a cherry.