Vermouth is a fortified wine that typically has an alcohol content of around 15-18%. This means that it is considerably lower in alcohol compared to spirits like vodka or whiskey, which are typically around 40% alcohol by volume. So, in terms of getting drunk, vermouth is not as potent as those stronger spirits.
The alcohol content of vermouth is similar to that of regular wine, which is usually around 12-14%. However, it is worth noting that vermouth is often consumed in smaller quantities and used as an ingredient in cocktails rather than being drunk on its own. This is because vermouth is primarily used as a flavoring agent to enhance the taste of cocktails, rather than being consumed in large quantities for its alcohol content.
Whether vermouth will get you drunk or not also depends on how much you consume and how quickly you drink it. If you were to consume a large amount of vermouth in a short period of time, it could potentially lead to intoxication. However, due to its lower alcohol content, it would likely take more vermouth to reach the same level of intoxication as you would with a higher proof spirit.
It’s also important to consider the type of vermouth you are drinking. There are different styles of vermouth, such as dry vermouth and sweet vermouth, and they can vary in their alcohol content. However, even the higher-proof sweet vermouths still typically fall within the range of 18-20% alcohol by volume.
In my personal experience, I have found that drinking vermouth does not tend to lead to feeling excessively intoxicated. Instead, it provides a pleasant and flavorful drinking experience. Vermouth is often enjoyed as an aperitif, sipped slowly before a meal to stimulate the appetite. It is also commonly used as an ingredient in cocktails like the classic Martini or Negroni, where it adds complexity and depth to the drink.
While vermouth does contain alcohol, its lower proof compared to stronger spirits makes it less likely to get you drunk quickly. Vermouth is more about adding flavor and depth to cocktails or enjoying a leisurely aperitif rather than being a means to get intoxicated. However, as with any alcoholic beverage, moderation is key, and excessive consumption of vermouth can still lead to intoxication.