I’ve been lucky to have so many life-enriching experiences since I fell in love with a Spaniard in 2010, and I’ve learned much about the language and customs from my in-laws in the province of Cantabria on Spain’s northern coast. There are so many regional and national foods and drinks that I find myself obsessing over more and more with each visit. Most people know that Spain is a destination for wine, but not everyone knows about its custom of drinking vermouth, usually sweet, either straight or in a “vermouth preparado” cocktail. Vermouth is a fortified wine enhanced by botanicals with an extra kick from added spirits. To most Americans, sweet vermouth is a component that you splash into a Manhattan, not something to would drink alone on the rocks. My most enduring love beyond that for my husband is for the Spanish custom of the vermuteo—going out to meet friends, drinking vermouth, and slowly enjoying little savory shared plates. Nowhere is this more evident than in Vermutería Solórzano in the small, yet cosmopolitan city of Santander. Solórzano has been operating since 1941, and hardly a day has passed since that their small terrazzo and tile temple to vermouth has not been bustling with regulars enjoying a sip and a bite. Here are three iconic recipes inspired by the classic menu at Vermutería Solórzano to give you the chance to pursue the enjoyable for yourself.
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The preparado is the classic vermouth cocktail. This flexible recipe can be easily customized to any taste. Don’t like gin? Add a drop of rum instead!
Vermouth Preparado MAKES 1 COCKTAIL
3 ounces sweet vermouth 1 dash bitters 1 splash gin 1 splash seltzer or soda water orange slice to garnish 1. Pour all ingredients over ice in an old fashioned glass. 2. Stir well and garnish with an orange slice or olive. SWEETPAULMAG.COM 45
