Vermouth is a fortified wine, in other words, it is a wine with liquor added to stabilize it. According to the history books, it was invented in the 1780s in Turin, Italy. Damn, Italians will do anything for wine, right Mom?

Vermouth has two functions. It can be consumed straight as an aperitif or used in a cocktail. The two most common are the Negroni and the Manhattan.

There are two main types of vermouth: sweet (usually red) and dry (usually white). Both are used in cocktails. The dry version is used in cooking, just like white wine.

Let’s talk more about vermouth and its role in cocktails. Vermouth is like the trusty sidekick and supporting actor if you will. Vermouth is used to add body and complexity to cocktails. It is never the star of the show, but you will notice when it is missing.

Sweet vermouth has a subtle sweetness with spicy notes and a hint of bitterness on the finish. It lends its support to the ever-popular Negroni and Manhattan, but it can be used in many other cocktails.

Dry vermouth is crisp and tart. It is essentially a dry white wine. Dry vermouth is what gives a martini its backbone.

Now that winter has given way to spring, the Americano is an ideal patio cocktail. This cocktail appears simple, but if you get the ratios wrong it can be incredibly bitter.

Americano

1 oz Sweet Vermouth

1 oz Campari

½ cup soda water

In a highball glass, stir the Campari and vermouth together. Do not use a shaker as you want to meld the ingredients, not blend them. Add ice and top with soda water. Stir gently and garnish with a lemon or orange wedge.

Looking to elevate your cocktail game? The Old Pal is exactly what you need. This three-ingredient cocktail is sultry and a touch fiery.

1 1/2 oz Rye whisky

1 oz Dry Vermouth

1 oz Campari

Combine the ingredients in a cocktail mixing glass, fill it with ice, and stir for 30 seconds. Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon peel.