Established in 1856, Comoz was the second-oldest of Chambéry vermouth producers after Dolin, and was the first to produce in a crystal-clear style. (Dolin preceded with a sweet pale, rather than crystal clear, blanc vermouth.) Introduced in 1881, Comoz Vermouth Blanc expressed Claudius Comoz’s selection of wines, plants and fruits, many of which come from the hills above Chambéry. Comoz came to fame as the essential vermouth in the El Presidente cocktail in Cuba. Comoz is less sweet than other vermouth blanc, with notes of stone fruits, alpine flowers and a deep, resonant undercurrent of wormwood. This deeper profile marries with whiskey better than any other pale vermouth. Full details

A true Quinquina Blanc, and unique among aperitif wines. The profile of the Cap Corse Mattei BLANC aperitif wine is defined by its distinctly Corsican components. Its all-mistelle base is of Vermentinu and Muscat Petit Grains, lending a terrific minerality, acidity and floral tones. The local Cedrat (aka citron) adds unique citrus aroma and a silky texture. Since its creation in 1872 by Louis-Napoléon Mattei, Cap Corse Mattei is the oldest and best known aperitif of Corsica. Still today family owned, and all macerations, aging and bottling are done in house. Full details

Averell is an exceptionally bright liqueur—the fresh-pressed juice of heirloom Damson Plums married to a botanical gin marked by juniper, warm winter spices, bay leaf and ginger. Delicious with seltzer, sparkling wine or ginger beer, in both hot and cold black tea, or on its own, over ice. The history of the Damson dates to the dawn of civilization. Prized by the Romans and Crusaders, its cultivation spread throughout Europe and later to the orchards of North American colonial settlers who appreciated its nervy character: rich, intensely tart and slightly bitter. The Damson stands today as an endangered variety from a bygone era. Full details