La Hora del Vermut: A Spanish Tradition Lands at Ba-Ba-Reeba!
A very vermut happy hour special
This summer, Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! and Lil’ Ba-Ba-Reeba! are bringing a timeless Spanish tradition to Chicago’s afternoon scene debuting a new cocktail, La Hora del Vermut, made with La Cueva Nueva Vermut, orange and a splash of soda in partnership with Valencia-based vermouth brand Cueva Nueva.
Available exclusively during Happy Hour at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM daily and Lil’ Ba-Ba-Reeba! weekdays from 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM, your favorite tapas restaurants are inviting you to slow down, sip, and savor like the Spaniards do.
View the Happy Hour menu at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
View the Happy Hour menu at Lil’ Ba-Ba-Reeba!
So why are we loving Vermut so much? Vermut (or vermouth, in English) is a fortified wine flavored with herbs and spices. It’s a versatile and aromatic drink that can be enjoyed on its own, as an aperitif, or as a key ingredient in classic cocktails.
This new drink, the La Hora del Vermut, literally translates to “The Vermouth Hour,” which is the blissful window in Spain between late morning and lunch, from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, when friends gather over a glass of vermut (vermouth), a salty snack, and conversation.
“It’s all about slowing down, enjoying good company, and taking a moment before the rest of the day takes over,” says Phi Peinado, owner of Cueva Nueva. “We don’t think La Hora del Vermut should only be enjoyed in Spain. I see how well it fits into daily life in Chicago—especially at a place like Ba-Ba-Reeba!”
David Neimanis and Phi Peinado, Owners of Cueva Nueva
Cueva Nueva is a modern vermouth crafted in Catalunya using Garnacha Blanca and Airen grapes and infused with a stunning mix of 88 botanicals, from orange peel and cinnamon to traditional Mediterranean herbs. With a balance of spice, sweetness, and bitters, it’s fresh, complex, and exceptionally drinkable. Cueva Nueva is on a mission to bring youthful energy and modern flair to one of Spain’s oldest social traditions. In addition to enjoying in a cocktail, vermut rojo is best served simply over ice and garnished with a Spanish olive and an orange slice with an optional splash of soda water.
“It’s the perfect early evening sipper—post-work, refreshing, and incredibly social. I remember my dad enjoying this when I was younger, and it’s become my own after-work ritual. Now we’re thrilled to share that experience with our guests.” adds Mark Sotelino, partner at Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! and Lil’ Ba-Ba-Reeba!
If you plan to stop by your favorite Ba-Ba-Reeba! to try the La Hora del Vermut, David and Phi from Cueva Nueva recommend starting with these Ba-Ba-Reeba! classics that pair perfectly with the new drink.
“Remember, the general rule of thumb is to keep it salty and shareable,” Phi says. “This is the warm-up for the meal—not the main event.”
Gilda – A salty, spicy bite that balances the sweet vermut beautifully
Jamon Iberico – Deeply savory and delicate, a timeless pairing
Fried Calamari – Fried seafood and vermut? You can’t go wrong.
Be sure to pop into Cafe-Ba-Ba-Reeba! or Lil Ba-Ba-Reeba! during Happy Hour to check out the new La Hora del Vermut cocktail.
Keep an eye out for more vermut-inspired specials, giveaways and more by following Cafe-Ba-Ba-Reeba! and Lil-Ba-Ba-Reeba! on social media! Cheers to vermut hour, the Spanish way. ¡Salud!
