The Ultimate List: 10 Premium Vermouths for Your Collection

Vermouth, a fortified wine infused with a blend of botanicals and spices, is a versatile and essential ingredient in classic cocktails and a sophisticated aperitif in its own right. For those looking to elevate their collection, these ten premium vermouths stand out for their exceptional quality and distinctive flavors. Each offers a unique profile, making them valuable additions to any discerning collector's lineup.

1. Carpano Antica Formula

Description: Carpano Antica Formula is a legendary vermouth hailing from Italy. Known for its rich, complex flavor, it combines hints of vanilla, dried fruit, and spice with a deep, amber color.

Tasting Notes:

• Rich vanilla and dried fruit
• Spicy and complex
• Long, warming finish

Why It’s Essential: Its historical significance and complex flavor profile make it a must-have for both cocktail enthusiasts and vermouth collectors.

2. Dolin Vermouth de Chambéry

Description: Dolin Vermouth de Chambéry is a classic French vermouth renowned for its crisp, elegant profile. Made with a blend of white wine and carefully selected botanicals, it features subtle notes of herbs and citrus.

Tasting Notes:

• Crisp and fresh
• Subtle herbal and citrus notes
• Clean, balanced finish

Why It’s Essential: Its refined taste and versatility make it an excellent choice for a variety of cocktails or enjoyed on its own.

3. Noilly Prat Original Dry

Description: Noilly Prat Original Dry is a quintessential dry vermouth from France, aged in oak barrels for added complexity. It offers a distinctive profile with hints of citrus, herbs, and a touch of brininess.

Tasting Notes:

• Citrusy and herbal
• Slightly briny
• Dry, crisp finish

Why It’s Essential: Its iconic status and dry, aromatic profile make it an indispensable ingredient for classic cocktails like the Martini.

4. Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Rubino

Description: Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Rubino is a premium vermouth with a deep ruby color and a rich, aromatic profile. Infused with a blend of spices and botanicals, it offers notes of red fruits, herbs, and a touch of vanilla.

Tasting Notes:

• Red fruit and vanilla
• Spicy and herbal
• Rich, complex finish

Why It’s Essential: Its luxurious flavor and versatility make it a standout choice for enhancing cocktails or savoring on its own.

5. Cocchi Vermouth di Torino

Description: Cocchi Vermouth di Torino is a celebrated Italian vermouth known for its bold flavors and rich history. Made with a base of Barbera wine and infused with a blend of spices, it features notes of cocoa, orange, and herbs.

Tasting Notes:

• Cocoa and orange
• Spicy and herbal
• Full-bodied finish

Why It’s Essential: Its historical significance and robust flavor profile make it a valuable addition to any vermouth collection.

6. Vermouth del Professore Rosso

Description: Vermouth del Professore Rosso is an artisanal vermouth from Italy, crafted with a blend of red wine and a complex mix of botanicals. It offers a rich, nuanced flavor with hints of cherry, cinnamon, and cloves.

Tasting Notes:

• Cherry and cinnamon
• Spicy and complex
• Warm, smooth finish

Why It’s Essential: Its artisanal production and rich flavor make it a unique and sought-after vermouth for collectors.

7. Lillet Blanc

Description: Lillet Blanc is a French vermouth with a light, refreshing profile. Made with a blend of white wines and fruit liqueurs, it features notes of citrus, honey, and herbs.

Tasting Notes:

• Citrus and honey
• Light and herbal
• Crisp, clean finish

Why It’s Essential: Its refreshing taste and versatility make it an excellent choice for summer cocktails and aperitifs.

8. Mancino Vermouth Rosso

Description: Mancino Vermouth Rosso is an Italian vermouth known for its rich, full-bodied flavor. It is crafted with a blend of botanicals and aged in oak barrels, resulting in notes of dried fruit, spices, and a touch of sweetness.

Tasting Notes:

• Dried fruit and spices
• Rich and slightly sweet
• Complex, lingering finish

Why It’s Essential: Its deep flavor profile and aging process make it a standout choice for classic cocktails and sipping.

9. Belsazar Vermouth Red

Description: Belsazar Vermouth Red is a German vermouth crafted with a blend of wines and botanicals. It offers a rich, aromatic profile with notes of berries, herbs, and a hint of spice.

Tasting Notes:

• Berries and herbs
• Spicy and aromatic
• Smooth, balanced finish

Why It’s Essential: Its unique flavor profile and quality make it a valuable addition to any premium vermouth collection.

10. Vermouth Carpano Bianco

Description: Vermouth Carpano Bianco is an Italian white vermouth with a delicate, floral profile. Made with a blend of white wines and aromatic herbs, it features notes of citrus, white flowers, and a hint of sweetness.

Tasting Notes:

• Citrus and white flowers
• Light and floral
• Smooth, clean finish