Vya Extra Dry

I think vermouth is an underrated category. Many are delightful sipped neat or on ice with just a twist of citrus. Vya is among the more recent vermouths available (relatively speaking, as it's still over two decades old). While I usually favor Dolin or Noilly Prat for dry vermouth in cocktails, I find this one to be among the superior options. The aroma features lemongrass and a distinctly floral character. On the palate, I detect grapefruit, lemon zest, lavender, and a hint of pine. The finish possesses a respectable duration, offering a mild bitterness without any warmth. Vya carries a significant price tag, particularly when contrasted with Dolin and Noilly Prat, yet it is expertly crafted and quite enjoyable on its own. I wouldn't substitute it for my go-to dry vermouths in mixed drinks, but it would perform well in a martini. If you're seeking a different dry vermouth experience, Vya is a solid choice.

Smells like Sprite, herbs, white wine, and Chartreuse. On the palate, it's a slightly sweet white wine, herbs, and spices. Meh. Smells good, but otherwise kind of unpleasant.