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Vermut

Having a vermouth or "vermut" in Barcelona is a longstanding tradition that is deeply ingrained in the city's culture. Vermouth is a type of fortified wine that is aromatized with various botanicals, such as herbs, spices, and roots, giving it a unique and complex flavor. In Barcelona, vermouth is typically enjoyed as an aperitif before lunch or dinner, often with a variety of small snacks or "tapas."

The tradition of having a vermouth dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it was common for workers to take a break from their labors and gather at local bars to enjoy a glass of vermouth and some small bites. Over time, this tradition became more widespread, and today it is a beloved ritual that is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Many bars and cafés in Barcelona specialize in serving vermouth, and some even have their own house-made varieties. Some of the most popular accompaniments to vermouth include olives, anchovies, cured meats, and croquettes. So if you find yourself in Barcelona, be sure to join in on this time-honored tradition and savor a glass of vermouth with some delicious tapas!

What to Order

Black vermouth, also known as "vermut negre" in Barcelona, is a type of vermouth that is made with a higher proportion of red wine and a mix of aromatic herbs and spices, including cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. This gives it a darker color and a richer, more complex flavor than traditional white vermouth. Black vermouth is often enjoyed on its own, either straight or on the rocks, or as a key ingredient in classic cocktails such as the Manhattan or the Negroni. Vermuts are often served with a toothpick with olives, or an orange slice or strip of orange peel.  

Some of the most popular brands of black vermouth in Barcelona include Yzaguirre, Casa Mariol, and Padró & Co.

Where to Find

Barcelona has a long tradition of vermouth drinking, and there are many famous and historic vermuterías (vermouth bars) in the city that are worth a visit. Here are some of the most well-known:

Casa Martí: Also known as "Els Quatre Gats," this famous modernist café in the Gothic Quarter was a popular gathering place for artists and intellectuals in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and it still serves great vermouth and food today.

Bodega La Puntual: This classic bar in the Gothic Quarter is a great place to enjoy a vermut in a traditional setting, with wooden barrels lining the walls and a range of tasty tapas to choose from.

Bodega Quimet: This classic bar in the Poble Sec neighborhood is famous for its delicious montaditos (small sandwiches), as well as its excellent selection of vermouths and other drinks.

Morro Fi: This sleek and modern vermutería in the Born neighborhood offers a wide range of vermouths and other drinks, along with a small but delicious menu of snacks.

Bar Electricitat: This historic bar in the Gràcia neighborhood has been around since the early 20th century and still retains its old-fashioned charm. The vermouth here is excellent, as are the traditional Catalan dishes.

Casa Mariol: This family-owned bodega in the trendy neighborhood of Gràcia offers a wide range of vermouths and other local wines, along with tasty tapas.

Bar Calders: This popular bar in the Sant Antoni neighborhood is known for its laid-back atmosphere and great selection of vermouths, as well as its tasty tapas and other dishes.

Quimet & Quimet: This tiny vermutería in the Poble Sec neighborhood is a Barcelona institution, known for its incredible selection of vermouths and delicious tapas.

Casa Almirall: This historic bar in the Raval neighborhood dates back to 1860 and has been a popular spot for vermut for generations.

Vermutería del Tano: This cozy vermutería in the Gràcia neighborhood is known for its friendly atmosphere and great selection of vermouths and other

These are just a few of the most famous vermuterías in Barcelona, but there are many more to discover throughout the city. Each of these places has its own unique atmosphere and personality, so be sure to explore and find your own favorite spot to enjoy a glass of vermut in Barcelona.

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