Castagna Classic Dry Vermouth NV from Castagna in Beechworth is a pungent, bitter‑fresh, seriously grown‑up dry vermouth based on estate‑grown Viognier and a complex, secret blend of botanicals – very much an aperitivo in its own right as well as a mixer.

In the glass it pours slightly cloudy with a dark copper to pale salmon‑pink hue, then opens with intense aromas of pink grapefruit, mandarin peel, orange peel, wormwood, wild thyme, oregano, aniseed, red fruits, citrus and woody notes like sandalwood and bay/sage. The palate is light‑ to medium‑bodied yet packed with flavour – grapefruity bitterness, yeasty/bready and brioche notes, bay leaf and sage, angostura‑like spice and earthy sandalwood, finishing dry, delicately herbal and gently, moreishly bitter at around 16% alcohol.

It’s designed as a saliva‑inducing aperitivo: perfect over ice with a slice of citrus, lengthened with soda, or as the dry vermouth base in martinis and other classic cocktails where you want real flavour rather than neutral filler. Castagna’s organic, biodynamic credentials and reputation for terroir‑driven wines make this a standout Australian vermouth for both home bartenders and serious vermouth fans.