Taking Dry Vermouth Beyond the Martini

In our May/June 2025 issue, contributor Rich Manning explores dry vermouth’s utility in cocktails other than the Martini. Whether used with gin or agave spirits, it can “provide depth and a bright balance in a notably different way than its sweet vermouth counterpart,” he says. Here are several of our favorite non-Martini cocktails that incorporate dry vermouth.

Black Lodge

Extra dry vermouth balances out the coffee liqueur in this Boulevardier variation.

Cardinale

In this classic Negroni variation, dry vermouth takes the place of sweet vermouth to better match the robes of the cardinal for whom it was originally created.

Chai Town

This Malört cocktail from Lady Jane bartender Thomas Crawford originated from a dare to make a delicious cocktail using Malört.

Chrysanthemum

With a formula that ticks the current trendy cocktail boxes, the Chrysanthemum cocktail might just be ready to bloom once more.

El Capitán

Made with pisco, equal amounts of sweet and dry vermouths, and bitters, this cocktail most closely resembles a perfect Pisco Manhattan.

El Presidente

Striking the perfect balance between dry and sweet, this version of the El Presidente cocktail from El Pequeño bar in Montreal is worth remembering. 

The Green Giant Cocktail

The Green Giant cocktail by Clover Club co-owner Tom Macy is an enduring favorite at the Brooklyn bar thanks to its balance of fresh flavors.

Moi Vermouth

Grab a juniper-forward gin to add a pop of brightness to this vermouth cocktail. 

Old Pal

The Crunkleton in North Carolina updates the classic Old Pal cocktail to appease the modern palate by dialing up the whiskey.

Phil Collins

Turn up the yacht rock and settle back in the sunshine with this berry-bright Phil Collins cocktail from The Snug in Sacramento.

White Port With Lime

A summer-ready cocktail highlighting the bright side of a fortified wine.