Vermouth &
Fortified Wine Classic Cocktails

A Rosita is a Negroni-style cocktail built on agave spirits and split vermouth. It keeps the bitter backbone of a Negroni, but trades gin for tequila, and balances the sweetness by using both sweet and dry vermouth. The result is bitter, aromatic, and usually drier on the finish than a classic Negroni. Some menus label it a “mezcal Negroni.” The traditional Rosita is tequila-forward. Mezcal is optional, used either as a split base or as a full substitute. The important part

Most “Vodka Martini” searches are looking for one thing: a reliable, bar-standard spec that tastes crisp, not harsh. The challenge is that this cocktail has very few ingredients, which means technique and balance matter more than in most drinks. Small changes in vermouth, ice, dilution, and garnish can make the difference between elegant and aggressive.

Before the Dry Martini became the icon of hotel bars and three-piece suits, there was the Martinez: richer, sweeter, and unapologetically aromatic. If the Martini is a razor blade, the Martinez is a fountain pen—slower, more ornate, but incredibly satisfying when you give it time.

A Negroni is the definition of a spirit-forward classic: equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet Vermouth, served cold over ice with orange. It looks simple, but small choices (ice, vermouth freshness, stirring time, garnish quality) are the difference between “too bitter” and “perfectly balanced.”

The Satan’s Whiskers cocktail is a sophisticated masterpiece from the golden age of mixology. Known for its intricate balance of botanical gin, fortified wines, and bright citrus, it remains a favorite among discerning enthusiasts. This cocktail offers a complex flavor profile that manages to be both refreshing and deeply layered, making it an essential addition to any home bartender’s repertoire.