vermuth

vermuth

A bartender pours vermuth into a cocktail shaker.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A type of fortified wine: "vermuth" (also spelled "vermouth") is a wine-based beverage flavored with aromatic herbs, spices, and other botanicals, typically used as an aperitif or in cocktails. It is characterized by its bitter-sweet taste and is often fortified with additional alcohol.
    • A variant spelling: "vermuth" is an alternative spelling of "vermouth", though the latter is more common in modern English.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • She ordered a glass of vermuth before dinner. (She requested a serving of this fortified wine as an appetizer.)
    • The bartender used dry vermuth to make a classic martini. (The bartender employed this wine as a key ingredient in the cocktail.)
Advanced Usage

  • "Dry vermuth": a type of vermuth with less sugar, often used in cocktails like the martini.

    • He prefers dry vermuth in his gin and tonic. (He likes the less sweet version of this wine.)

  • "Sweet vermuth": a type of vermuth with added sugar, used in drinks like the Manhattan.

    • Sweet vermuth adds a rich flavor to the cocktail. (The sweeter variant enhances the drink's taste.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Vermouth (n): the more standard spelling of the same word.

    • The recipe calls for Italian vermouth. (The drink requires this type of fortified wine.)

  • Vermouth-based (adj): describing a drink or product that uses vermouth as a main ingredient.

    • The vermouth-based cocktail was very popular. (The drink made primarily with vermouth was well-liked.)
Synonyms
  • Aperitif wine: a wine-based drink served before a meal to stimulate the appetite.
  • Fortified wine: a wine with added alcohol, such as sherry or port.
Related Idioms
  • "Vermouth and tonic": a specific cocktail combining vermuth with tonic water.
    • She enjoyed a vermouth and tonic on the patio. (She drank this specific mixed beverage outdoors.)
Note on Spelling
  • "Vermuth" is a less common variant of "vermouth". In contemporary usage, "vermouth" is the standard spelling in both British and American English. The word originates from the German "Wermut" (meaning wormwood, a key ingredient in its flavoring).