How should I drink vermouth?

In Spain tradition dictates that vermouth is drunk before lunch – it is, after all, a tried and tested appetizer. Having said that, this doesn’t mean that vermouth is only a lunch time drink. On the contrary, vermouth can be enjoyed at any time of the day, paired with food, as an after-work pick-me-up or in one of the many cocktail options. If drunk on its own, we recommend using a small glass or tumbler – with or without ice – but always cold.

The way in which vermouth is combined with food has evolved over the years and the traditional potato chips and olives have given way to more sophisticated pairings including a range of foods such as smoked cheese and creative canapés.

The truth is that when it comes to combining our vermouths with food, the possibilities are endless and, at the end of the day, much will depend on you, the consumer! But here are few suggestions anyway, some simple but tasty ideas to help you enjoy that special vermouth moment.

In fact most vermouths go well with any simple snacks, such as bread sticks, flatbreads and different nuts. They also pair perfectly with Spanish omelet or crunchy fishcakes. In Spain we call these croquetas and make them with ham and spinach too.  They make a wonderful tapa for any one of our Padró & Co. vermouths.

Cheese lovers will be glad to know that our vermouths go fabulously with many different cheeses. We recommend milder or soft cheeses for our Rojo Clásico, whilst stronger cheeses, such as blue cheese pairs better, we think, with our Rojo Amargo. The intense flavours of both cheese and vermouth melt together on the palate in perfect harmony.

Cured meats are another great option when creating food fusions with vermouth. Cured hams and sausages are amazing vermouth partners. Try them with our Blanco Reserva, Rojo Clásico, Reserva Especial and Rojo Amargo. But save our Dorado Amargo Suave for black sausage!

Fresh and tinned fish is another great pairing option for vermouth. Mussels, clams, cockles, squid and sardines are superb, especially with our Rojo Clásico and Reserva Especial.

The really wonderful thing about vermouth is that the possibilities are endless and there is something for everyone!