While you can’t make a manhattan without Sweet Vermouth, you can’t make a Gibson without Dry Vermouth (if you thought I was going to say Martini, we’ll get to that)!  Unlike Sweet Vermouth, Dry Vermouth is white and well, dry.  The aromatics that get used also vary from Sweet Vermouth, although many of the strong herbal elements are still a focal point.

While there are plenty of drinks you can make with Dry Vermouth, the most well known is the Martini (6 parts gin; 1 part Dry Vermouth).  While it’s possible to debate gin or vodka and olive or twist, one thing that really can’t be debated with a classic Martini is if you add vermouth.  Without a doubt, you need to put vermouth into a Martini.  Without vermouth, you’re essentially drinking chilled vodka or gin.   While how much is up to you, more than the cursory nod toward France that Churchill suggested, is suggested when it comes to adding vermouth.

How does Martini & Rossi Extra Dry Vermouth hold up for sip or making it’s namesake drink?

Sight:  Pale straw, with watery edges

Smell:  A piney note is present on the top, a clean, floral element starts in afterword.  Coriander, orange blossom, sage, and jasmine all come into play as the nose is very complicated behind the pine notes.

Sip: A subtle touch of sweetness comes up at the start, before moving rapidly toward dry and bright.  Elements of pine and quinine drive the profile, complimented by floral elements, gooseberries, meyer lemon, orange zest, and a deep bitterness like juniper.

Savor:  The ending is bitter, and runs with not only pine, but elements of citrus pith and quinine.

Martini & Rossi Extra Dry Vermouth is not only very dry, but aromatically aggressive.  The flavor profile leans heavily into the herbs, and minimizes any sort of fruit that is present.  The aromatics are good, although a hint sharp, but this could still be serviceably used in a cocktail.  Martini & Rossi Extra Dry Vermouth is a good dry vermouth, that can be used in everyday Martinis, Algonquins, and other cocktails.

Verdict:  Herbal, Pine, Quinine, Sharp
Rating: 69
Price: $5 for a 375ml
Torino, Italy

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