Tasting Notes
Noilly Prat 1813 Original Dry Vermouth features a complex yet delicate profile that unfolds gradually on the palate. It possesses crisp, refreshing notes of green olives and hints of citrus zest balanced by subtle herbal undertones. The aroma is fragrant and inviting, with a bouquet that includes floral chamomile, aromatic wormwood, and a faint trace of savory spices. Upon tasting, one can discern the elegant interplay between dryness and a mild sweetness, thanks to the selection of botanicals such as coriander, gentian root, and white thyme, which create a beautifully layered flavor experience.
The mouthfeel is smooth and well-structured, allowing the flavors to linger gracefully, leaving an exquisite aftertaste that hints at a complex blend of botanicals. This refined vermouth exhibits bright acidity and a balanced finish, placing it among the finest examples of dry vermouth in the world. Serving it chilled allows the vibrant qualities to shine through, making each sip a refreshing exploration of its heritage and craftsmanship.
History
The origins of Noilly Prat date back to 1813 when Joseph Noilly began crafting this signature vermouth in Marseillan, France. Initially, it was developed to cater to the local market’s tastes, combining white wine with carefully selected aromatic herbs and spices. The intention was to enhance the wine, adding complexity and flavor. By the latter half of the 19th century, Noilly Prat gained recognition beyond its local vicinity, becoming more popular across France and eventually abroad.
The evolution of Noilly Prat involved incorporating different methods of aging and blending, enhancing the product’s characteristics that have persisted to this day. By the early 20th century, the vermouth’s distinctive style was solidified, and it started being viewed as an essential ingredient in the cocktail culture, further securing its status as one of the foremost vermouths globally. Its legacy endures, affirmed by generations of dedicated consumers and the distillery’s commitment to traditional practices combined with innovative flair.
Over the years, Noilly Prat has faced various challenges yet remained steadfast in maintaining high standards and authentic production methods. Recognized both locally and internationally, it now carries numerous accolades that highlight its quality and heritage.
Fabrication Process
The fabrication process of Noilly Prat 1813 Original Dry Vermouth begins with the selection of high-quality white wines sourced primarily from the Languedoc region in France. These wines serve as the base, providing the essential foundation for the vermouth. Following the wine selection, a proprietary blend of botanicals is prepared. This unique mixture includes a variety of herbs, spices, and botanicals that contribute to its distinctive aroma and taste, including wormwood, chamomile, and various citrus peels.
The production includes steeping the botanicals in the base wine, a process known as ‘maceration’. This step allows the flavors and aromas of the herbs to naturally infuse into the wine over a period of several weeks. Once maceration is complete, the wine is fortified with a neutral spirit to increase its alcohol content and ensure stability. After fortification, the vermouth undergoes a blending process, where batches are combined to achieve the desired flavor profile and consistency.
Aging is a key component of the vermouth’s development and is traditionally carried out in oak casks, which not only helps mellow the flavors but also adds depth and complexity. The aging period typically lasts around three years, during which the vermouth is monitored for optimal taste. Following this, the vermouth is filtered to remove any solids, then bottled, ready to maintain its heritage as an iconic dry vermouth. The care involved in each step reflects Noilly Prat’s commitment to quality and tradition in vermouth-making.
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