Wormwood/vermouth can mean two things: on the one hand it is a plant called wormwood (Latin: Artemisia), which tastes very bitter, and on the other hand it is a drink made from wine and flavored with this plant and many other herbs. In this section I explain where vermouth comes from, where it is grown and which varieties and versions you can find in the shop or at the bar — simple and easy to understand, so that even a 12‑year‑old can follow.
Origin of the plant:
The wormwood plant is native to Europe and Asia. People used it already hundreds of years ago because it has a very bitter taste and was said to help with minor “ailments.” The taste is so strong that it is usually used only in very small amounts — similar to how one uses a very hot spice, where only a hint is needed.
Growing regions:
- Mediterranean region: Countries like Italy, Spain and France grow a lot of wormwood. There the climate is warm and dry, which the plant likes.
- Northern Europe: Wormwood is also cultivated in Germany and other parts of Europe, often on herb farms.
- Other regions: Today wormwood also grows in North and South America and parts of Asia, because the plant is used for drinks, herbal products and as an ornamental plant.
Available varieties of the plant:
There are several species of the genus Artemisia that differ in appearance and taste. Two important species are:
There are several species of the genus Artemisia that differ in appearance and taste. Two important species are:
- Artemisia absinthium – this is the classic, very bitter wormwood. It is often used in small amounts for beverages.
- Artemisia pontica – this species is somewhat milder and is sometimes preferred for flavoring.
Vermouth as a beverage — the types:
The beverage "vermouth" is wine to which alcohol and many herbs, spices and sometimes sugar are added. Here are the common variants, simply explained:
The beverage "vermouth" is wine to which alcohol and many herbs, spices and sometimes sugar are added. Here are the common variants, simply explained:
- Dry: Tastes less sweet, more like a robust, slightly bitter herbal tea. Often used in the "Martini" cocktail.
- Sweet (rosso/bianco): Is sweeter and often darker (rosso) or light (bianco). Tastes a bit like syrup with herbs.
- Blanc/bianco: Between dry and sweet, with floral notes.
- Rosé and flavored variants: Newer styles include fruits or special spices and are more colorful in flavor.
- Alcohol‑free variants: There are also alcohol‑free "vermouth" drinks that mimic the herbal notes but contain no alcohol — handy if you don't want to drink alcohol.
Where can you find vermouth?
In well stocked supermarkets, liquor stores, health food shops and online. For special or handcrafted varieties it's worth visiting specialty shops or small producers. If you want to imagine the types: think of dry vermouth like black coffee without sugar, and sweet vermouth like cocoa with honey — both know the herbs, but they taste very different.
In well stocked supermarkets, liquor stores, health food shops and online. For special or handcrafted varieties it's worth visiting specialty shops or small producers. If you want to imagine the types: think of dry vermouth like black coffee without sugar, and sweet vermouth like cocoa with honey — both know the herbs, but they taste very different.
