Vermouth

This fortified, apertif wine, infused with aromatic herbs and spices, is the catalyst that transforms gin or vodka into a Martini or a Manhattan. Vermouth shares much in common with herbal liqueurs, especially bittersweet Italian amaro. In Europe, both are traditionally served as apertifs, chilled or on the rocks, to stimulate digestion; in the United States, both are celebrated as essential ingredients for the mixologist.

Read buying guide for vermouth.