Our Story
Best Vermouth Australia began in 2024 with a simple observation: while Australian wine culture was thriving, vermouth remained largely misunderstood and underappreciated. We saw bottles gathering dust on bar shelves, heard bartenders lamenting about customers who thought vermouth was "just that stuff in Martinis," and witnessed countless home enthusiasts struggle to navigate the growing but confusing world of aromatised wines.
Our founding team—comprising a certified sommelier who spent five years studying aperitivo culture in Turin, a former bar manager from Melbourne's acclaimed cocktail scene, and a wine journalist with a particular passion for fortified wines—decided it was time to change the narrative. We believed that Australians deserved a trusted, independent resource that could demystify vermouth, celebrate its rich heritage, and guide consumers toward bottles that would genuinely enhance their drinking experience.
What started as a passion project quickly evolved into Australia's most comprehensive vermouth resource. We've now tasted and reviewed over 150 different vermouths, from iconic Italian houses like Carpano and Cocchi to innovative Australian producers creating exciting expressions with native botanicals like wattleseed, lemon myrtle, and Davidson plum. Our reviews are conducted blind whenever possible, with each bottle assessed on its aromatic complexity, balance, botanical integration, and value for money.
Beyond reviews, we're committed to education. We believe that understanding vermouth's fascinating history—from its medicinal origins in ancient Greece to its codification in 18th-century Turin—enhances the appreciation of every sip. We explore the intricate botanical formulas that distinguish a crisp French dry vermouth from a lusciously rich Italian rosso, and we explain why proper storage isn't just advice but essential practice for this delicate wine-based spirit.
Our testing methodology is rigorous. Each vermouth undergoes evaluation neat, on ice, and in at least two classic cocktails. We consider the Australian palate and drinking culture, recognising that our hot summers call for refreshing aperitivo moments while our sophisticated bar scene demands vermouths that can stand up to the most discerning mixologists. We never accept payment for reviews, and our affiliate relationships are always clearly disclosed—your trust matters more than any commission.
Today, Best Vermouth Australia serves thousands of readers monthly, from curious beginners taking their first steps into aperitivo culture to experienced bartenders seeking their next signature ingredient. We've helped countless Australians move beyond the dusty bottle in the back of the cupboard to discover why vermouth has been cherished for centuries across Europe—and why it deserves a prominent place in Australian drinking culture.
Whether you're searching for the perfect sweet vermouth for your Negroni, a delicate dry for your Martini, or simply want to explore the pleasure of vermouth served simply over ice with an orange twist, we're here to guide your journey. Welcome to the world of vermouth. Welcome to Best Vermouth Australia.