Vermouth Cassis Cocktail Recipe
Vermouth Cassis Nutrition Facts
Calories:180
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:10g
Alcohol:15%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Vermouth Cassis cocktail has its origins in France and became popular in the early 20th century. It is a classic aperitif cocktail that combines the herbal flavors of vermouth with the sweet and fruity taste of cassis, a blackcurrant liqueur. This cocktail is often enjoyed before a meal to stimulate the appetite and is a favorite among those who appreciate the complex flavors of vermouth and cassis.
- Vermouth Cassis was first created in France
- Became popular in the early 20th century
- Often enjoyed as an aperitif before a meal
How Vermouth Cassis Tastes?
The Vermouth Cassis cocktail has a complex flavor profile that is both sweet and herbal. The vermouth adds a slightly bitter and aromatic taste, while the cassis provides a fruity and sweet counterbalance. The result is a well-rounded and refreshing cocktail that is both strong and light.
Interesting facts about Vermouth Cassis
- Vermouth is a fortified wine that has been infused with various botanicals, such as herbs, spices, and fruits
- Cassis is a sweet, dark red liqueur made from blackcurrants
- Vermouth Cassis is sometimes served with a splash of soda water to lighten the drink and add a bit of effervescence
Ingredients
- Dry vermouth: 2 oz(60ml)
- Creme de cassis: 1 oz(30ml)
- Lemon twist: 1
- Garnish: 1
Dry Vermouth
Dry Vermouth is the backbone of this cocktail, providing an aromatic and herbal base which is both refreshing and complex. The 2 oz measurement ensures the Vermouth is the star, while not overpowering the Cassis. If you skip the Vermouth, you lose the cocktail's essence. An alternative could be a splash of another aromatic spirit, like Lillet Blanc, but expect a sweeter profile.
Alex Green
Creme de Cassis
This blackcurrant liqueur adds a luxurious sweetness and depth, contrasting nicely with the dryness of the Vermouth. Using 1 oz gives just the right amount of fruitiness without making it too syrupy. Forgoing the Creme de Cassis would result in a very dry and less colorful drink. You could substitute with Chambord for a raspberry twist.
Emma Rose
Lemon Twist
The Lemon Twist is more than just a pretty garnish; it adds a zestful aroma and a touch of citrus which brightens the drink. Without it, you'd miss the zing that cuts through the sweetness. No lemons? Try an orange twist for a slightly sweeter citrus scent.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Vermouth Cassis Drink
- Fill a mixing glass with ice
- Add 2 oz of dry vermouth
- Add 1 oz of creme de cassis
- Stir the ingredients until well chilled
- Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass
- Garnish with a lemon twist
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality vermouth. The vermouth is a key ingredient in this cocktail, so using a high-quality brand can significantly improve the taste.
- Chill your glass before serving. This will help keep your cocktail cold for longer.
- Stir, don't shake. This cocktail should be stirred to prevent the vermouth from becoming too diluted.
Perfect Pairings
Cheese
Pair the Vermouth Cassis with soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie to complement the cocktail's herbal notes with creamy textures.
Charcuterie
An assortment of cured meats can balance the sweetness of the Creme de Cassis with savory flavors, offering a pleasant contrast.
Seafood
Light seafood dishes like oysters or grilled shrimp can be elevated with this cocktail's bright and fruity character.
Desserts
Opt for fruit-based desserts such as a lemon tart or berry sorbet to echo the cocktail's citrusy and fruity dimensions.
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What you could change in Vermouth Cassis
- Creme de Cassis: If you can't find creme de cassis, you can substitute it with blackcurrant jam or blackcurrant cordial.
- Dry Vermouth: If dry vermouth is not available, you can use white wine as a substitute, but keep in mind that this will alter the taste of the cocktail.
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And of course - twists🍹
Vermouth Cassis Spritz
- Add 1 oz of soda water to the mix
- Serve in a large wine glass with more ice
- Garnish with a sprig of mint This version is more refreshing, with a subtle effervescence for those sunny afternoon gatherings. It's lighter on the palate and perfect for sipping.
Berry Vermouth Cassis
- Use raspberry-infused dry vermouth
- Add fresh mixed berries to the glass after straining This variation introduces a burst of berry flavors complementing the cassis and adds a beautiful visual element with the berries. It brings a summery, fresh taste to the cocktail.
Golden Cassis
- Substitute Creme de Cassis with Creme de Peche (peach liqueur)
- Replace lemon twist with an orange twist It will be a peachy affair with a golden hue, offering a different kind of sweetness and a softer citrus note. This twist will feel like a warm sunset in a glass.
In case you forgot basics how to make Vermouth Cassis
Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainInsert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Vermouth Cassis
What type of glass should I use to serve Vermouth Cassis?
A Martini or Coupe glass is traditionally used to serve Vermouth Cassis.
Can I tweak the cocktail to my preference?
Yes, cocktails are versatile. Experimenting with the ratios of the ingredients can give you a different taste profile that suits your palate. However, drastic changes may result in a different cocktail entirely.
How important is the ice in cocktail?
Ice is crucial to a cocktail as it not only chills the drink but also dilutes the alcohol content, affecting the final taste. It is advised to use fresh ice and not reuse melted ones to avoid dilution.
What can I pair with a Vermouth Cassis?
A Vermouth Cassis is a classic aperitif, usually enjoyed before a meal, and pairs well with light starters like cheese and crackers, or an olive platter.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of Vermouth Cassis?
You can use non-alcoholic alternatives to Vermouth and Creme de Cassis to make a 'mocktail' version. However, it may not have the same complexity of flavor as the original.
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