Lustau Vermut Blanco NV

Winery Background and History

Established in 1896 by Don José Ruiz-Berdejo, Bodegas Lustau began as a small family-run winery in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. Initially focused on producing sherry wines, Lustau expanded its portfolio over the years to include a range of fortified wines and brandies. The winery is renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition, utilizing the solera system for aging its products. Today, Lustau is recognized globally for its exceptional sherries and brandies, maintaining a balance between innovation and heritage.

Producer and Winemaker

Lustau’s Vermut Blanco is crafted by their dedicated team of enologists and cellar masters, who oversee the meticulous blending and infusion processes. The production involves selecting high-quality Fino and Moscatel wines, infusing them with a carefully chosen mix of botanicals, and aging the blend to achieve a harmonious flavor profile. The team’s deep understanding of sherry and vermouth production ensures the creation of a complex and refined vermouth that reflects the character of Jerez.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The Palomino and Moscatel grapes used for Lustau’s Vermut Blanco are sourced from vineyards in the Jerez region of Spain, known for its unique albariza soils and warm, sunny climate tempered by Atlantic breezes. This climate contributes to the grapes’ balanced sugar and acidity levels, ideal for sherry and vermouth production. The aging process occurs in Jerez de la Frontera, where the microclimate provides the perfect conditions for maturation in sherry-seasoned casks.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Lustau Vermut Blanco is a blend of two classic Jerez wines: a dry, mineral, and crisp Fino sherry and a sweet and floral Moscatel wine. The blend is infused with a selection of botanicals, including wormwood, chamomile, rosemary, gentian, marjoram, and orange peel. Each botanical is macerated separately before being combined and added to the wine blend. The result is a complex and aromatic vermouth that balances sweetness, bitterness, and herbal notes.

Tasting Notes

The Lustau Vermut Blanco exhibits an intense and bright yellow color with golden reflections. On the nose, it shows floral, citrusy, and herbaceous notes over a yeasty and mineral base. The palate is sweet with a bitter and clean finish, featuring a long, nutty, and refreshing aftertaste. This vermouth is characterized by its depth, balance, and lingering complexity, making it a distinguished example of white vermouth.

Food & Wine Pairing

Lustau Vermut Blanco pairs excellently with a variety of foods. Its rich and complex profile complements olives, roasted nuts, and salty cheeses. It also serves as a refined aperitif, enhancing the beginning of a meal. For a traditional pairing, enjoy it alongside Spanish tapas such as jamón ibérico or chorizo, where its depth harmonizes with the savory flavors.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic nuances and structural balance, serve Lustau Vermut Blanco at a temperature of 7–9°C (44–48°F). Using a wide glass with ice and garnishing it with a green olive will allow the vermouth to express its full bouquet. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as an ingredient in cocktails like a Martini.

Storage and Aging Potential

While Lustau Vermut Blanco is ready to enjoy upon release, it can be stored for several years without deterioration, provided it is kept upright in a cool, dark place away from temperature fluctuations. Unlike table wines, vermouth does not significantly improve with bottle aging, but proper storage ensures the preservation of its quality and character over time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Fino Sherry (Palomino)

• Moscatel

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

15%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 94 points