Casa Mariol Vermut Negre 1L

Casa Mariol is a third-generation family winery in Terra Alta, a small region in the south of Catalonia. They have 50 hectares of vineyards, plus they work with other small farms nearby. Dry Mediterranean climate, calcareous soils, two winds that do a dance over the land. The dry north wind, el cierzo, and the moist southeast, el garbí. 

This vermut is made from 100% Macabeu. Fermented in stainless steel at low temperatures to keep things fresh and vibrant. Then a neutral grape spirit, also made from Macabeu, gets macerated with over 160 local botanicals to Terra Alta. Green walnuts, thyme, rosemary, orange peel, cardamom, wormwood. The rest are a secret. Which feels right for something this old school. The blend spends six months aging in a solera system. Then it's ready.

Traditionally, you drink this in the afternoon. On the rocks. With a splash of cava, an orange slice, and an olive.