The Vermouth and Soda is a refreshing vermouth cocktail that holds a special place in Spanish culture, often enjoyed as an aperitif before meals. Its light and crisp nature makes it the perfect choice for a sunny afternoon or a relaxed evening, whether you are unwinding on a terrace or gathering with friends. Here is an exploration of this beloved cocktail, its origins, and how to make the perfect Vermut and Soda with Vermut Lustau Rojo. Check our introduction about the sherry-based vermouth category and our collection for more insights and vermouth cocktail recipes.
COCKTAIL: Vermouth and Soda
Full Ingredients list
- 3oz Vermut Lustau Rojo
- 6oz Club Soda
- Garnish: Orange Slice
Recipe author: Steven Dragun
THE ORIGINS OF THE VERMOUTH AND SODA COCKTAIL
Vermouth (or vermut in Spanish), is a fortified wine that has been flavored and aromatized with a variety of botanicals, such as herbs, spices, and citrus peels. It comes in two main styles: dry and sweet. Vermouth originated in Italy, but it has become particularly popular in Spain, where it is consumed in many forms, from neat to mixed in cocktails. The base of vermut is typically white, neutral wines to which herbs and spices like wormwood, cinnamon, and cloves are added. Vermut can vary greatly in taste depending on the producer, but it is always rich with herbal, slightly bitter, and aromatic flavors.
The Vermut and Soda cocktail has its roots deeply embedded in Spanish culture, particularly in Catalonia and the broader Mediterranean region. In Spain, “tomar el vermut” (having vermut) is a social ritual that often takes place in early afternoon, especially on weekends. This tradition involves drinking vermut—sometimes neat, sometimes mixed with soda—while snacking on small bites like olives, anchovies, or gildas The Vermut and Soda is the lighter, more refreshing version of this tradition, ideal for a more relaxed occasion. It is often consumed with friends or family, making it a drink that brings people together over simple pleasures. It is not just about the drink itself, but about the enjoyment of good company, delicious bites, and slow living.
WHAT VERMOUTH IS BEST TO DRINK WITH SODA?
Traditionally, a sweet red vermouth is used in a Vermouth and Soda, but feel free to experiment with any vermouth that you may enjoy. For our Vermouth and Soda, we stayed true to our roots and used Vermut Lustau Rojo. This sweet red vermouth is well balanced yet complex, which adds depth and character to the cocktail. The based wines used in the Vermut Lustau Rojo are amontillado and pedro ximénez, which contributes greatly to the complexity and mouthfeel of the vermut.
WHAT GLASS IS BEST TO SERVE A VERMOUTH AND SODA IN?
Along with most Highball cocktails, the Vermouth and Soda is traditionally served in a Collins glass. This tall, narrow glass typically holds between 300 to 410 milliliters (10 to 14 ounces) and is specifically designed to maintain the drink’s effervescence by minimizing the surface area exposed to air, thereby preserving carbonation longer. Additionally, its height accommodates ample ice, which helps keep the beverage chilled without diluting its flavors too quickly.
However, a rocks glass is also a great option when serving vermouth in a more Mediterranean style — simply over ice with a splash of soda. This casual, refreshing serve highlights the vermouth’s aromatic character and is perfect for relaxed, sunny occasions too.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO MAKE A VERMOUTH AND SODA COCKTAIL WITH VERMUT LUSTAU ROJO?
Creating a Lustau Fizz cocktail either at home or for a cocktail program is both an enjoyable and cost-effective endeavor.
Crafting a Vermouth and Soda at home or behind the bar is very simple and affordable.
● Cost-Effective: At approximately $3.37 per serving, making a Vermouth and Soda is inexpensive and easy to build.
● Controlled Alcohol Content: With an ABV of around 4.2%, the Vermouth & Soda offers a moderate alcohol level, making it a refreshing choice for most occasions.
Below is a breakdown of the estimated costs and alcohol by volume (ABV) for each ingredient, along with the total cost per serving:
HOW TO PREPARE A VERMOUTH AND SODA COCKTAIL AT HOME
1 Fill a Collins glass with ice. (but a rocks glass also works beautifully for a more Mediterranean-style serve).
2 Pour the Vermut over the ice.
3 Top off with Club Soda.
4 Stir gently until well mixed.
5 Garnish with an orange slice
FAQ
How much alcohol is in vermouth and soda?
The approximate alcohol found in a vermouth and soda is around 4.2% ABV.
What soda is best for a vermouth and soda
Club soda or sparkling water are the standard sodas used in a vermouth and soda. However, feel free to try your favorite flavored soda in this cocktail. You may have to adjust the proportions depending on your desired level of sweetness, but using a flavored soda opens the door to a realm of flavor possibilities.
What is the best way to garnish a vermouth and soda?
The type of garnish really depends on which style of vermouth you are using for a vermouth and soda. If using a traditional, sweet red vermouth, an orange slice is typically used. If using something other than a sweet red vermouth, try to match the garnish to the overall flavor profile of the vermouth.
