Lustau-Vermut-Rojo: review and tasting notes, price
Hey, all you aficionados and aficionadas of the spirited world! Have you ever paused in the vermouth section of your local liquor store, staring at the exotic bottles, and wondered what makes Lustau Vermut Rojo stand out? If so, you’re in for a treat. Grab a seat and let’s uncork this bottle together, metaphorically (??? ) speaking, of course!
History of Lustau
Imagine being in Spain, the country renowned for its winemaking history that dates back millennia. Lustau originally comes from Jerez, the heart of Spain’s sherry production. And trust me, these folks have a philosophy that’s just as intriguing as their wines—centered on tradition, quality, and innovation.
The Making of Lustau Vermut Rojo
Ingredients
Time to geek out a little! This vermouth is made from a blend of two sherries—Amontillado and Pedro Ximénez. These sherries give it a unique depth and complexity.
Fermentation and Aging Process
Lustau Vermut Rojo is aged in a solera system, imparting additional layers of flavors and nuances you won’t find in your run-of-the-mill vermouth.
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Pour it into a glass, and you’ll notice its deep ruby red color that’s as inviting as a Spanish sunset.
Aroma
Take a whiff, and your nose will be caressed by notes of orange peel, vanilla, and aromatic herbs. Intrigued yet?
Palate
On the palate, it’s smooth and balanced with a touch of sweetness—think candied fruits with a side of spice!
Finish
Ah, the finish. It’s long-lasting with hints of bitterness, reminding you that good things in life deserve to be savored slowly.
Price Point
Considering its layers of complexity, you might expect a hefty price tag. But no, this bottle of liquid gold can be yours for around $20-$25. A steal, if you ask me!
Food Pairings
Now, what’s a good drink without the perfect food to go with it? Lustau Vermut Rojo pairs exceptionally well with tapas, especially olives, and cured meats. The acidity and sweetness balance out the saltiness of the food, creating a match made in culinary heaven.
Conclusion
So, is Lustau Vermut Rojo worth the hype? Absolutely. From its rich history and meticulous crafting process to its unique flavor profile and pocket-friendly price, it ticks all the boxes.
Additional Information
Availability
You can easily find it in specialized liquor stores and some online retailers.
The Best Cocktails to Make with Lustau Vermut Rojo
- Rojo & Tonic: This is as straightforward as it gets, yet so rewarding. Mix 2 oz of Lustau Vermut Rojo with 4 oz of tonic water over ice. Stir gently and garnish with a slice of orange. It’s a refreshing take on a classic that highlights the vermouth’s rich aromatics.
- Spanish Negroni: Swap out the Italian vermouth in your Negroni recipe for Lustau Vermut Rojo. Combine equal parts gin, Lustau Vermut Rojo, and Campari. Stir with ice and garnish with an orange twist. The Lustau adds a Spanish flair to this classic cocktail, delivering a more fruit-forward, yet complex flavor profile.
- Rojo Reviver (as previously mentioned): Perfect for those who enjoy an adventurous blend, combine 2 oz Lustau Vermut Rojo, 1 oz gin, and a dash of orange bitters. Stir, strain, and garnish with an orange twist.
- Rojo Martinez: Consider this the Spanish cousin to the classic Martinez cocktail. Mix 1.5 oz gin, 1.5 oz Lustau Vermut Rojo, a dash of maraschino liqueur, and a couple dashes of orange bitters. Stir over ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a cherry or an orange twist.
- Lustau Rojo Spritz: For a bubbly affair, mix 2 oz of Lustau Vermut Rojo with 3 oz of Prosecco and a splash of soda water. Add ice and garnish with an orange slice or an olive for a salty twist.