Drink of the Week: Carpano Bianco Vermouth

We can’t keep a secret. Because today’s Drink of the Week—the Carpano Bianco Vermouth is just too good to not share. Yesterday was our first official day on the ground in New Orleans for the 11^th annual Tales of the Cocktail, and between seminars, tasting rooms and parties, we got the chance to sip this upcoming U.S. release from the Fratelli Branca family of spirits and fortified wines (and with Edoardo Branca, no less). Hello, delicious! Once an afterthought for many, vermouths are bigger than ever—though you don’t have to tell Branca that. Unchanged since its initial formulation more than 200 years ago, Europeans are already familiar with the Carpano Bianco Vermouth, though it hasn’t made its way stateside until now (make that this upcoming October when it officially launches in the U.S.). Branca stayed mostly mum on the formula, though we do know it’s a maceration of more than a dozen herbs and botanicals (including artemisia, fennel, thyme and coriander) in a white wine base with just a pinch of sugar. And the taste? Subtly sweet, it’s rich and velvety with fresh floral flavors met by smooth vanilla and a subtle tinge of bitterness on the finish. Crisp and refreshing over ice, mixed with soda, or splashed with Prosecco, it hit the spot in New Orleans’ humid heat, and we can’t wait until fall to take our next taste.