You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
SPAIN<br />
TRENDING<br />
A MODERN TWIST<br />
MARIO GARCÍA, WINEMAKER AT BODEGA PADRÓ & CO<br />
THE PADRÓ FAMILY HAS BEEN MAKING WINE AND VERMOUTH SINCE THE 19 TH CENTURY<br />
Although deeply entrenched in Spanish social life,<br />
the way vermouth is now enjoyed has changed and<br />
is slightly more sophisticated than it once was.<br />
It is still drunk neat, occasionally with a dash of<br />
sparkling water from a soda siphon, but is now<br />
served on large ice cubes with a slice of orange and<br />
an olive. The influence of the mixology trend has<br />
given it a new twist. Also, it has gradually made its<br />
way onto the tables of acclaimed restaurants. “The<br />
public is increasingly willing to try vermouth and<br />
food pairings”, explains Louise Jorgensen from<br />
Bodega Padró & Co<br />
Although the success of mixology partly explains<br />
vermouth’s present-day popularity, another<br />
important factor is the engagement by younger<br />
generations who have embraced a drink associated<br />
with their grandparents. Its artisanal production<br />
techniques meet their standards and their taste<br />
for sensitively produced beverages using entirely<br />
natural ingredients. Young consumers also have<br />
a penchant for lower alcohol appetisers, and with<br />
an ABV ranging from 14.5 to 22%, vermouth fits<br />
the bill. But it’s probably vermouth’s creative side<br />
that has drawn in new consumers keen to indulge<br />
their love of freedom and inventiveness. Vermouth<br />
is inherently an exercise in style with only vaguely<br />
defined rules. Each bodega has its own recipe<br />
which is a closely guarded secret. From the choice<br />
of aromatic plants to the base wine or maturation<br />
techniques, each has its own formula based on<br />
its history and preferences. Consequently, every<br />
vermouth tasting is full of surprises, and our selection<br />
illustrates this to perfection!<br />
PADRÓ & CO, KEEPING IT<br />
IN THE FAMILY<br />
The starting point for what would become a<br />
successful family venture dates back to 1886.<br />
The fifth generation is now at the helm of the<br />
winery, which is located near Tarragona. Since<br />
2016, it has been exporting its vermouths to<br />
Belgium, Germany, the United States, Canada,<br />
106 AUTUMN 2022 • GILBERT & GAILLARD - THE FRENCH EXPERTS ON WINE
Change language