Vermouth in Australia is having a real moment, evolving from a niche cocktail ingredient into a versatile spirit in its own right. Australian vermouth producers are embracing native botanicals like lemon myrtle, wattleseed, and pepperberry to create expressions that stand apart, combining traditional European style with a distinct Aussie twist. Brands like Regal Rogue, which uses organic wines and ethically sourced indigenous botanicals from New South Wales, are leading the charge by delivering vermouth that’s bold, fruit-driven, and packed with fresh, vibrant flavours.

You’ll find a wide range across the country, from dry and fresh styles to richer, sweet vermouths crafted in small batches in regions like Victoria, the Adelaide Hills, South Australia, and even the Limestone Coast. These wines are often made with careful attention to balance, incorporating native herbs and spices that give them a uniquely Australian sense of place. The result is vermouth that works brilliantly on its own over ice, with tonic or soda, or as a lively base for classic cocktails like Negronis and Martinis.

Australian vermouth’s freshness and versatility make it perfect for the local climate and lifestyle, think long, lazy afternoons with a spritz, or an after-dinner drink with a twist. The recent success of brands like Regal Rogue, which has won awards for its Lively White vermouth, shows the category is booming both in bars and bottle shops across the country. It’s also inspiring more producers to jump in, which helps grow awareness and appreciation for this often overlooked but endlessly interesting spirit.