Vermouth

Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerator after opening. Vermouth oxidizes quickly once opened; use within 4 weeks for best flavor. Unopened bottles keep indefinitely in cool storage.

Always refrigerate after opening—vermouth is less stable than spirits and degrades faster than wine.

Dry vermouth works best in gin cocktails; sweet vermouth pairs with whiskey-based drinks.

Use fresh vermouth for cocktails; older opened bottles are better suited for cooking.

A small splash adds depth to soups, pan sauces, and braised dishes without overwhelming them.

Leaving an opened bottle at room temperature for weeks—this will flatten the flavor quickly.

Using equal parts vermouth and spirits in cocktails; vermouth should enhance, not dominate.

Assuming all vermouths are the same; dry and sweet are quite different and not interchangeable in all recipes.