What type of wine is vermouth?

Vermouth is classified as a fortified wine. This means that it is made from a base of wine that has had a distilled spirit, usually brandy, added to it. Fortification increases the alcohol content and can enhance the flavor profile of the wine. Additionally, vermouth is infused with various botanicals, including herbs, spices, and sometimes even roots, which contributes to its distinctive taste and aroma. The fortification process and the complex blend of flavors are what set vermouth apart from standard table wines.

While vermouth can also be sweet or dry, depending on the specific type (sweet vermouth is typically red and has a higher sugar content, while dry vermouth is usually white and less sweet), its classification as a fortified wine is the most accurate description of its primary characteristics.