Vermouth Cassis Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Vermouth
Alcohol 15%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 10g
Prep time 2 minutes

Imagine a drink that’s both sweet and refreshing, perfect for sipping on a sunny day. That’s the Vermouth Cassis, a tasty mix of vermouth and blackcurrant liqueur. In this article, we’ll travel through its vibrant history, savor its unique taste, and learn just how to mix it to perfection. Ready for a flavorful adventure? Let’s mix things up together!

History

The Vermouth Cassis cocktail is a classic drink with a storied past. It originated in France, where both vermouth and crème de cassis were widely enjoyed. This cocktail reflects the French love for simple yet elegant flavors.

• The term “Cassis” refers to blackcurrants, which are native to central and northern Europe and Asia.
• Vermouth, a fortified wine, gained popularity in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, setting the stage for cocktails like Vermouth Cassis.
• The drink is believed to have gained prominence during the early 20th century, as the cocktail culture flourished in Europe.

The taste of a Vermouth Cassis?

When you sip a Vermouth Cassis, you taste a delightful balance of sweetness from the crème de cassis and the herbal notes of vermouth. It’s a refreshing cocktail, often enjoyed as an aperitif to awaken the senses.

I find Vermouth Cassis to be wonderfully satisfying; it’s like a little taste of France in a glass, with its sweet berry notes and aromatic vermouth creating a delightful dance on the palate.

Interesting facts about Vermouth Cassis

• The cocktail is often garnished with a lemon twist to add a bright, citrusy aroma that complements the sweet and herbal flavors.
• In France, Vermouth Cassis is sometimes called a “Pompier,” which means firefighter, because of its reputation for being a refreshing reprieve.
• The drink’s simplicity and elegance have kept it a favorite for generations, symbolizing the effortless sophistication of French cocktail culture.

Ingredients

• Dry Vermouth: 2 oz (60ml)
• Crème de Cassis: 1 oz (30ml)
• Club Soda: A splash
• Lemon Twist: For garnish

A wine glass is ideal for serving a Vermouth Cassis; its wide bowl allows the aromas to mingle and enhance the tasting experience. Alternatively, a highball glass could also be suitable, providing a tall, elegant presentation.

Recipe. How to make Vermouth Cassis

1. Fill a wine glass with ice to chill.
2. Add 2 oz of dry vermouth and 1 oz of crème de cassis to the glass.
3. Top with a splash of club soda and gently stir.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist.

While Vermouth Cassis is a treat, it’s wise to remember that it contains sugar and alcohol. To make a lighter version, you could use natural sweeteners or opt for a low-sugar vermouth. The antioxidants in blackcurrants can be a plus, though, giving a little healthful twist to your indulgence.

Food Pairings

Pairing foods with Vermouth Cassis can elevate your dining experience. The right dish can complement the cocktail’s sweet and aromatic profile, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Charcuterie

A platter of cured meats and cheeses matches the Vermouth Cassis perfectly. The saltiness of the meats and the richness of the cheeses contrast delightfully with the cocktail’s sweetness and acidity.

Seafood

The subtle sweetness of Vermouth Cassis is a wonderful companion to seafood. It pairs especially well with oysters or smoked salmon, enhancing the briny flavors with its fruity notes.

Dark Chocolate

For a decadent treat, try dark chocolate with your Vermouth Cassis. The bitterness of the chocolate and the sweetness of the drink are a match made in heaven, making for an indulgent pairing.

I adore Vermouth Cassis for its refreshing nature—it’s like a breezy French afternoon in a glass, and the taste of blackcurrants always seems to bring a smile to my face.

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Bartender Advice

• Always use fresh ice to avoid diluting the drink with melted water from old ice cubes.
• Experiment with the ratio of vermouth to crème de cassis to find your perfect balance of sweetness and herbal bitterness.
• A gentle stir is sufficient; you don’t want to bruise the vermouth and lose its delicate flavors.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Vermouth Cassis, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.

What you could change in Vermouth Cassis

• Dry Vermouth: Can be replaced with sweet vermouth for a richer, sweeter version of the cocktail.
• Crème de Cassis: Try substituting it with other fruit liqueurs like Chambord for a raspberry twist.
• Club Soda: Sparkling wine can be used for a more celebratory and effervescent drink.

Vermouth Cassis Variations

Kir Royale Cassis

• Ingredients: Swap club soda with champagne.
• Recipe: Pour dry vermouth and crème de cassis into a flute and top with champagne.

White Wine Cassis

• Ingredients: Use white wine instead of vermouth.
• Recipe: Mix white wine with crème de cassis and serve chilled with a lemon twist.

Berry Vermouth Spritz

• Ingredients: Add fresh berries and mint to the classic ingredients.
• Recipe: Muddle berries and mint, then add vermouth, cassis, and top with soda.

For a non-alcoholic take, mix a splash of blackcurrant syrup with chilled tonic water and garnish with a twist of lemon. It’s a simple, fruity drink that everyone can enjoy.

Q&A

What’s the best time of day to enjoy a Vermouth Cassis?

Traditionally, it’s an aperitif, so before a meal or in the early evening is ideal. But really, anytime you crave a refreshing cocktail is perfect.

Can I make Vermouth Cassis in a large batch for parties?

Absolutely! Mix the vermouth and crème de cassis in a pitcher and top with club soda when serving.

Is there a non-alcoholic vermouth I could use for a mocktail version?

Yes, there are several brands offering non-alcoholic vermouth alternatives that work wonderfully.

How can I ensure my Vermouth Cassis doesn’t become too diluted?

Use large ice cubes, which melt slower, and remember to chill your ingredients beforehand.

What’s the key to a perfect lemon twist garnish?

Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to cut a thin strip of lemon peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.

Can Vermouth Cassis be considered a healthy drink?

While it’s not a health drink, in moderation and with adjustments like less sugar, it can be a lighter option compared to other cocktails.