“Holy thistle, yarrow, rhubarb, vanilla, pimento, ginger, and licorice are just a few of the 33 botanicals in this Veneto-made vermouth from Poli, well-known for its excellent grappa. Although merlot isn’t an unfamiliar grape in the Friuli-Venezia-Giulia area of northeastern Italy, it’s not so common as a base for vermouth. But Poli uses the red grape to good effect here. It’s ruby-hued and more noticeably vinous than herbaceous in aroma, and it’s downright cheerful on the palate. Its flavors of bright, tart rhubarb, sour cherry, orange zest, and vanilla are extra-refreshing with a splash of club soda over ice.”

“Leave it to the grappa great to turn out a killer vermouth duo: Jacopo Poli’s (whose Cleopatra grappa I recently reviewed) White Vermouth with a Vespaiolo white wine base, showcases floral grapefruit, alongside Merlot-based Red Vermouth, aromatic with herbaceous spice. Both are beautiful on their own or together in a 50/50 vermouth cocktail. Once again, the Bassano del Grappa legend nails it, proving the historic producer shines well beyond grappa.”– 4.5/5