200 years of history in your cocktails - Dolin
Vermouth from the Heart of Savoie
For over 200 years, Dolin & Cie has been synonymous with the rich heritage of Savoie. Located in Chambéry, a town steeped in the history of the region, Dolin’s vermouth has become a symbol of authenticity and tradition, resonating with cocktail enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide.
Founded in 1814 by Joseph Chavasse, Dolin has always drawn inspiration from its Alpine surroundings. The distillery continues to use plants and botanicals harvested from the mountains, staying true to age-old methods passed down through generations. This commitment to tradition and local ingredients has earned Dolin a place of pride in the world of spirits, with their vermouths being a preferred choice for those who value genuine flavors and historical authenticity.
A Deep Connection to Chambéry
Dolin’s history is deeply linked with Chambéry, where the distillery has survived historical crises, including the return of the Duchy of Savoy to France and the chaos of the World Wars. Despite these challenges, the Dolin and Sevez families, who have jointly managed the company for two centuries, have never considered relocating. Their deep-rooted connection to the town and region is evident in their continued dedication to producing vermouths that reflect the unique terroir of Savoie.
A Small Team with a Big Vision
Throughout its history, Dolin has remained a family-run business, emphasizing the importance of human relationships over mass production. The company has consistently relied on a small, skilled team, cultivating a supportive work environment that prioritizes quality over quantity. This approach has allowed Dolin to maintain the high standards that have defined their products for generations.
Innovation and Tradition
Joseph Chavasse’s early experiments in the 1820s laid the groundwork for what would become Dolin’s signature vermouth. Inspired by the beverages he encountered in Turin, Chavasse developed his own vermouth recipe, which gained international acclaim.
Since Marie Dolin's gold medal-winning vermouth at the 1876 Philadelphia World's Fair, Dolin has enjoyed global recognition. Today, their products are found in prestigious bars and hotels across the globe, from New York to Hong Kong.
Known for their refined flavors and aromatic complexity, Dolin’s vermouths have become a staple in creative cocktails, transporting drinkers to the Alpine landscapes that inspire them.
Commitment to Sustainability and Local Sourcing
Dolin’s dedication to preserving the environment is evident in their commitment to working with local growers and suppliers. The distillery collaborates with regional plant growers to cultivate endangered Alpine species and sources all packaging materials from nearby suppliers. This focus on sustainability not only supports the local economy but also ensures that Dolin’s products remain closely tied to their Savoyard origins.
The Legacy of Dolin & Cie
Dolin’s journey began in 1814 when Joseph Chavasse moved to Les Échelles and laid the foundation for one of France’s most renowned distilleries. In 1852, Louis-Ferdinand Dolin, who married Joseph’s daughter Marie, took over the business and branded it “Vermouth Dolin.” Under Marie’s leadership after Ferdinand’s death, the company gained international recognition, and Dolin’s vermouth became a sought-after product across Europe and beyond.
Despite the challenges of the 20th century, including the impact of World War I and the rise of competing vermouth producers, Dolin continued to innovate and expand. The Sevez family, who took over the distillery in the 1920s, introduced new products and embraced advertising to maintain Dolin’s visibility in the market. Today, Dolin’s vermouths are exported to over 50 countries, solidifying their place as a global brand.
The Distillation Process
Dolin’s production methods remain a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations. The distillation process, using a copper still with a rectification column, ensures the high-quality output that defines Dolin’s vermouth. The distillery meticulously selects the best plants and fruits, ensuring that every bottle captures the essence of the Savoie region.
The Vermouths of Dolin
-
Dry Vermouth: A staple in the cocktail world, Dolin’s Dry Vermouth is known for its slightly sweet profile with hints of citrus, menthol, and almond. It has been a favorite among bartenders since the days of James Bond’s famous Dry Martini.
-
Red Vermouth: With a rich history and a complex flavor profile, Dolin’s Red Vermouth boasts aromas of fruit compote, prunes, and spices, balanced by a subtle bitterness. It’s a key ingredient in classic cocktails like the Manhattan and Negroni.
-
White Vermouth: Invented in Chambéry in 1881, Dolin’s White Vermouth is sweet, aromatic, and beloved by gourmands. It features a harmonious blend of Alpine botanicals, citrus notes, and a silky texture that adds elegance to any drink.
The Future of Dolin & Cie
Today, Dolin is led by Pierre-Olivier Rousseaux, who continues to uphold the values and traditions that have defined the distillery for over 200 years. With a renewed focus on exporting their vermouths to new markets and a commitment to sustainability, Dolin is poised for continued success in the 21st century. As their vermouths find their way into more cocktails around the world, Dolin remains a true embodiment of Savoyard craftsmanship and Alpine heritage.