Muscat of Alexandria and a Distinctive American Oak Infusion
Jarabe de Palo Blanco Premium is a Mediterranean vermouth produced in Teulada, Alicante, from Muscat of Alexandria wine. Its distinctive character comes from combining maceration with botanicals and an American oak infusion, which adds toasted and vanilla notes to the naturally aromatic character of the Muscat grape.
The choice of this grape variety is particularly well suited to its origin. Alicante's Marina Alta region has a close association with Muscat of Alexandria, an intensely aromatic grape that provides the foundation for a white vermouth with a distinctly Mediterranean identity.
A White Vermouth Based on Muscat of Alexandria
The starting point for Jarabe de Palo Blanco Premium is a Mediterranean Muscat of Alexandria wine. A selection of herbs and botanicals is then macerated in this base, including wormwood, gentian and elderflower, among other ingredients.
The Muscat retains a recognisable presence in the overall profile, contributing notes of grapes and raisins. The botanicals introduce the herbal and bitter counterpoint needed to create the balance characteristic of vermouth. The result combines freshness, aromatic character and restrained bitterness.
What Makes Its American Oak Infusion Different?
One of the most distinctive elements of this expression is the use of an American oak infusion stopper. The wood contributes toasted, vanilla and coconut notes to the vermouth, which gradually integrate with the wine and botanicals.
This is a different approach from a vermouth defined solely by its blend of herbs. Here, the oak forms part of the bottle's distinctive personality, complementing the profile of Muscat of Alexandria with a sweeter, more toasted dimension.
This detail also helps distinguish the two Jarabe de Palo expressions available at Licorea. While Blanco Premium uses American oak, the red version uses French oak and also features a different selection of botanicals.
A Distinctly Mediterranean Aperitif
Thanks to its fresh, herbal and slightly bitter character, this vermouth is particularly well suited to the aperitif. We recommend serving it well chilled, over ice and in a wide glass. It can be garnished simply with orange peel or with peel and a few drops of fresh lemon juice.
It does not require complicated preparation. Keeping the serve simple allows the Muscat of Alexandria, the botanicals and the distinctive influence of the American oak to remain clearly recognisable.
At the table, it pairs particularly well with distinctly Mediterranean foods. Seafood, tinned fish, anchovies, asparagus and toasted almonds are some of the suggested pairings for this expression. Its balance of sweetness, freshness and bitterness works especially well with savoury appetisers.
Jarabe de Palo Blanco or Rojo: Which Should You Choose?
The two versions offer different interpretations of vermouth while sharing a common identity. Jarabe de Palo Blanco Premium focuses on the freshness of Muscat of Alexandria, the botanicals and the nuances contributed by American oak.
If you prefer a vermouth with a different profile, at Licorea you can also find Vermouth Jarabe de Palo Rojo Premium, made with Muscat of Alexandria but infused with French oak. Tasting both is particularly interesting for comparing how the choice of botanicals and type of oak can define two distinct expressions within the same range.
