New Bottega vermouths focus on terroir

by Amy Hopkins

Italian drinks group Bottega, known for its Prosecco, has moved into the vermouth category with the launch of a Bianco and Rosso expression.

According to the producer, its new vermouths stand out with their use of regional grape varieties, since most vermouths use neutral grape spirit. Bottega, based in Veneto, has sourced grapes from its local area to create the products. Vermouth Bianco Bottega uses Pinot Grigio, while Vermouth Rosso Bottega is made with Merlot. Both products contain more than 30 herbs, flowers and spices. “Vermouth is usually made with a neutral wine base to take out the flavour of the grape, but we wanted to use wine with personality,” said Irene Patruno, spokesperson for Bottega. Vermouth Bianco Bottega’s botanical list includes: elderflower, Roman absinthe, cinnamon, nutmeg, greater galangal and bitter orange zest, Vermouth Rosso Bottega contains ingredients such as angelica, bitter and sweet orange zest, absinthe, basil leaves, coriander seeds, marjoram, oregano, clary and radicchio. The vermouths were unveiled at the TFWA World Exhibition & Conference in Cannes last week and will be available in Bottega’s global markets. At last year's TFWA show, Bottega showcased its new vegan cream liqueur, Crema di Pistacchio, and an Italian gin, Bacûr Dry Gin.