Martini & Rossi dynamic duo Giuseppe “Beppe” Musso (Master Blender) and Ivano Tonutti (Master Herbalist).
How fitting that my tasting appointment with the Martini & Rossi dynamic duo of Beppe Musso (Master Blender) and Ivano Tonutti (Master Herbalist) happened at The Aviary NYC, a veritable cocktail nirvana perched 35 floors above the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. These two charming gentleman showed me that there are truly no limits to the delicious drinks that can be created with Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Vermouth and Bitter Liqueur.
Martini & Rossi vermouth and bitter liqueur are the important foundation to many a stylish cocktail. However, we tend to overlook that even by themselves these bar essentials represent masterful blending that melds artistry and scientific precision. Many people mistakenly believe that vermouth is a spirit but it is actually wine that has been fortified with aromatic botanicals. Beppe Musso, master blender, has been making wine for almost three decades and said, "Wine is the base of our product." Ivano added, "Vermouth is wine and more. Wine is the skeleton. Botanicals add structure." In his role as master herbalist, Ivano who trained as a pharmacist, sources the finest botanicals and herbs available locally and around the globe. Consistency is key but these are "living formulas, not just recipes," said Beppe.
One of the most widely recognized brands in the world; Martini & Rossi has been producing vermouth at their historic headquarters in Piemonte, in northern Italy since 1863. That was also the year they introduced their classic Martini & Rossi Rosso Vermouth, an iconic product whose original blend remains unchanged. According to Beppe and Ivano, around the world 4 million drinks a day are served that include a Martini & Rossi brand! Tradition matters at Martini & Rossi but that commitment doesn't stifle their creativity. This respectful approach to innovation is beautifully displayed in their Riserva Speciale Rubino & Ambrato Vermouth and Bitter Liqueur 1872.
Elegant Nebbiolo is Piemonte's most famous red wine grape and provides an impressive foundation for Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Rubino Vermouth di Torino ($25). Juicy, spicy, and luscious with warm spice flavors, Rubino adds depth and energy to a cocktail. I quite enjoy Rubino by itself as an after-dinner digestif, especially on a chilly winter night. Of course, the exact blend of herbs and botanicals is secret but I did hear that red sandalwood and artemisias (herbaceous plants and shrubs) contribute to its charms.
The natural sweetness of Piemonte's famous Moscato d'Asti show its edgier side in Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Ambrato Vermouth di Torino ($25). The addition of botanicals like Roman chamomile to the Moscato d'Asti creates a beguiling bitter-sweet drink that balances lovely honey and floral flavors with tinges of exotic spices.image by Daniel Krieger
As the name implies, Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Bitter Liqueur 1872 ($27) is not wine based but has a foundation of pure neutral alcohol. Infused with aromatic herbs and bitter woods, it adds finesse and texture to classic cocktails like the Negroni.
In the Rocks Negroni, prepared with Riserva Speciale Rubino Vermouth and Riserva Speciale Bitter Liqueur, is available at The Aviary NYC.
image by Daniel Krieger
The Martini & Rossi website has recipes for creative cocktails using the Riserva Speciale vermouths and bitter liqueur. Of course, Martini & Rossi products are staples of bars around the globe but if you're visiting NYC, head up to The Aviary at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel for an elevated drink like the In the Rocks Negroni. Or you can mix it up at home using the recipe below! Pleasing to the palate and the eye, In the Rocks Negroni is a festive drink for the holiday season that is certain to delight your guests. Like Beppe and Ivano said, "Martini & Rossi is a lifestyle. Happiness is in the DNA of the brand!"
In the Rocks Negroni
1 oz Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Rubino Vermouth
3/4 oz Martini & Rossi Riserva Speciale Bitter Liqueur
3/4 oz Bombay Sapphire Gin
3 dashes of Orange Bitters
Served in ice sphere that is broken upon serving
