The history of vermouth dates back to medieval times when the goodness of herbs was preserved by steeping them in wine – often prepared by monasteries for medicinal purposes. Vermouth takes its name for the German word “Wermut” which means wormwood – an essential ingredient.
Each company will have its own recipe for each of the vermouth styles made. Recipes can include spices and fruits plus herbs – usually these are macerated in the wine which is then sweetened and fortified. The styles of vermouth most often referred to are Dry, Extra Dry, Bianco and Rosso and well known brands include Martini & Rossi and Cinzano as well as Noilly Prat – known as the original French Dry.