Doubtless one of the world’s most famous vermouths, Martini Rosso was first created in the 1860s. The exact recipe is a secret that has been passed down from master blender to master blender.

Beginning with a base of white wine (the red colour comes through the addition of caramel), which is then flavoured with a selection of Italian aromatics and herbs. The flavours of wormwood, dittany (a traditional aphrodisiac and relative of oregano) and summer savoury are particularly prominent. The wines are fortified with a neutral spirit and sweetened with caramel, with between 140-50g of sugar per litre.

The final result is vermouth rich in spicy, herbal flavours, with notes of cinnamon, anise, nutmeg, coffee, cola, dried fruits and toffee.

A classic option for cocktails such as the Manhatten and Vieux Carré, this is one of the all-time great vermouth bottlings.

• Distillery / Brand: Martini
• Country: Italy
• Bottler: Distillery Bottling