4 must-try cocktails inspired by some of our go-to Vancouver restaurants

Finding moments of joy and happiness in your everyday life is vital — especially during these trying times.

Those occasions, like virtually gathering with friends over bevvies and bites, are beyond precious, giving us the energy to power through life’s more mundane moments (like doing laundry, for instance).

Lately, when it comes to getting inspired to live the good life, we’ve been opting for cocktails that are refreshing, delicious, and infused with a little bittersweetness.

While you’ve likely already been acquainted with Martini Vermouth in the context of classic cocktails, like a Negroni or Manhattan, you might be surprised to learn just how versatile an option it is. The fortified wine is distilled with herbs and botanicals for a distinct taste that’s great on its own with a splash of soda or for savouring in a cocktail.

Some of our favourite local restaurants — Livia, Como, and Di Beppe — feature brag-worthy cocktails starring Martini Vermouth on their dine-in and takeout menus. Until you get the chance to try them, here are four invigorating cocktail recipes to experiment with at home.

Martini Vermouth and Tonic

Martini Vermouth

One of the simplest (and most effective) ways we like to enjoy Martini Vermouth is with tonic and an orange slice. The bittersweet flavours of the tonic complement those of the vermouth, while the orange adds a welcome dose of citrus and acidity to the mix. It’s the perfect way to take in the herbal, floral flavours of the fortified wine.

To try this classic for yourself, fill a glass with ice and add Martini Rosso and tonic. Gently stir the drink and garnish with an orange slice for the optimum aesthetic.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Martini Rosso
• 4 oz. tonic
• Ice
• Orange slice (for squeezing or garnishing)

Italian Holiday

Martini Vermouth

Let’s face it, we could all use an Italian holiday right now. But until international travel fully resumes, we’ll settle for a delicious Italian-inspired cocktail as a brief escape, imagining — between sips — that we’re somewhere breathtaking and warm.

Build Martini Bianco (or Ambrato), ice, fresh lime, simple syrup, and mint leaves into a cocktail shaker and shake thoroughly. Over ice, pour the mixture into a glass and top it with soda water. Questo è tutto!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz. Martini Bianco (or Ambrato)
• 3 oz. soda water
• 0.75 oz. fresh lime
• 0.5 oz. simple syrup
• Ice
• 8 mint leaves

El Torino

Martini Vermouth

Something to keep in mind is that vermouth is a great low ABV choice, which means you can enjoy it for longer and get the most out of moments with friends. When it comes to this refreshing drink, it’s the perfect crossroad between popping a bottle and sipping a cocktail. Here, you’ll find a little bit of everything: sour, citrusy grapefruit, bittersweet vermouth, and sweet prosecco coming together in a balanced meld of flavours.

Combine Martini Bianco, Martini Bitter, and Martini Prosecco in a glass over ice and garnish it up using pink grapefruit.

Ingredients:

• 0.5 oz. Martini Bianco (or Ambrato)
• 0.5 oz. Martini Bitter
• 3 oz. Martini Prosecco
• Ice
• Pink grapefruit (for squeezing or garnishing)

Spiced Italian

Martini Vermouth

Whether you’re making a romantic dinner for two at home or catching up with loved ones over Zoom, it’s always nice to have a little something new and exciting to sip on. This libation fits the bill, effortlessly marrying a touch of spice, a hint of vibrant citrus flavour, and Martini Rosso — vermouth with a character comprised of Italian sage, savory and dittany, and bitter-sweet exotic woods.

Gently mix it all over ice in your fanciest glass and garnish with an orange wheel to finish.

Ingredients: 

• 2 oz. Martini Rosso
• 3 oz. Fever-Tree ginger beer
• 0.5 oz. fresh lime juice

Martini Vermouth exists to inspire meaningful moments of bliss and exultation between friends — especially when it comes to connecting over food.

Give it a try by ordering cocktail to-go kits and food pairings from local restaurants in Vancouver or recreating the restaurant experience for yourself in the comfort of your home.

You can also learn more by visiting martini.com or grab a bottle from your local retailer. Please drink responsibly.