Aperitivi
Martini Bianco & Tonic
The short answer
This drink is a light and aromatic highball that combines the vanilla and floral notes of white vermouth with the crispness of tonic. It is a refreshing, lower-alcohol alternative to a standard gin and tonic.
- Style
- Vanilla-floral, long, 8% ABV
- Glass
- Highball or large wine glass
- Strength
- Approximately 8%
Where it comes from
The pairing of vermouth with soda or tonic water is a long-standing European tradition. The specific combination using a sweeter 'Bianco' style vermouth grew in popularity as a lighter, modern alternative to other highball cocktails.
What you need
- 60 ml (2 oz) Bianco vermouth
- 120 ml (4 oz) Tonic water
- Lime wedge
- Ice
How Larry builds it
- 01
Build. Fill a highball glass or a large wine glass with plenty of fresh ice cubes.
- 02
Pour. Pour the bianco vermouth over the ice, followed by the chilled tonic water.
- 03
Garnish. Gently stir to combine, then squeeze and drop in a lime wedge to garnish.
Larry’s rule: The summer drink for people who claim they don't drink.
Variations worth making
Rosso & Tonic
Substitute the bianco vermouth with sweet red (rosso) vermouth for a richer, spicier flavor profile.
Fiero & Tonic
Use a blood orange-flavored aperitivo like Martini Fiero for a bright, citrus-forward variation.
Questions people ask
Is Bianco vermouth the same as Dry vermouth?
No, Bianco (or Blanc) is a style of semi-sweet white vermouth, often with vanilla notes. Dry vermouth has less sugar and a more herbal profile.
Can I use lemon instead of lime?
Yes, lemon is a perfectly acceptable garnish, though lime provides a sharper contrast to the vermouth's botanicals.
What is the best tonic to use?
A neutral, high-quality Indian tonic water is generally preferred to allow the vermouth's flavors to stand out.
Is this a strong drink?
No, with an ABV similar to a glass of wine, it is considered a low-alcohol long drink.
What to eat with it
Mix it like Larry
The shakers, jiggers and glasses behind this drink.
Mixology 15-Piece Bartender Kit with StandView on Amazon →
BARE BARREL 14-Piece Cocktail Shaker SetView on Amazon →
KITESSENSU Cocktail Shaker Set with StandView on Amazon →
Japanese-Style Double Jiggers, 2-PackView on Amazon →
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Order Martini Bianco & Tonic with sausage and peppers at the spots on Larry’s lists:
More from Aperitivi
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