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How does Vermouth differ from wine?

Vermouth is indeed different from wine, although it is made from wine as a base. Here are some key differences:

1. Ingredients: While both vermouth and wine start with a base of wine, vermouth is fortified with additional alcohol, usually in the form of a distilled spirit such as brandy. Additionally, vermouth is flavored with a variety of botanicals, herbs, spices, and sometimes caramelized sugar or other flavorings. These ingredients give vermouth its distinctive aromatic and flavor profile, which can range from sweet to dry.

2. Aromatization: Vermouth is aromatized, meaning it's infused with a mixture of herbs and botanicals. This infusion process adds complexity and depth of flavor to the vermouth, distinguishing it from regular wine.

3. Fortification: Most vermouths are fortified with additional alcohol to increase their stability and shelf life. This fortification process typically involves adding a distilled spirit, such as brandy or neutral grain spirit, which raises the alcohol content of the vermouth.

4. Flavor Profiles: While wine comes in various styles and flavors depending on the grape variety, region, and winemaking techniques, vermouth has a unique flavor profile derived from its botanical infusion. Vermouth can be sweet, dry, or semi-dry, and it often has herbal, floral, and spicy notes that distinguish it from regular wine.

5. Usage: Vermouth is often used as a key ingredient in cocktails, such as the Martini or Negroni, where its herbal and aromatic qualities complement other spirits. It can also be enjoyed on its own, chilled or over ice, as an aperitif.

Overall, while vermouth shares some similarities with wine, its addition of botanicals, fortification, and distinct flavor profile set it apart as a unique beverage category.