Martini
A dry, spirit-forward mix of gin and dry vermouth stirred cold and served with olive or lemon twist.
The Martini is a stripped-down gin and vermouth cocktail that rewards precision in ratio and technique. Dry vermouth softens and extends the gin, while still allowing its botanicals to lead. Stirring with very cold ice preserves clarity and texture, creating a silky, spirit-forward drink served in a chilled cocktail glass. A lemon twist will emphasize citrus and aromatics, while an olive leans the drink toward savory notes.
Ingredients
- • 2.5 oz gin
- • 0.5 oz dry vermouth
- • 1 dash orange bitters (optional)
Did you know?
“The Martini likely evolved from earlier gin-and-vermouth drinks like the Martinez and Turf Club, which appear in late 19th-century bar manuals. Early versions were sweeter and used more vermouth before gradually drying out through the early 20th century. Wondrich traces these transitions in Imbibe! and related writing, showing how changing tastes and the popularity of London dry gin reshaped the drink. Debates over the 'proper' ratio, garnish, and even shaking versus stirring have become part of Martini lore.”
Bartender's Note
Keep both gin and vermouth very cold, use large fresh ice, and stir longer than you think to reach proper dilution and chill without clouding.
How to make the Martini
- 1Add gin, dry vermouth, and bitters (if using) to a mixing glass filled with ice
- 2Stir until very cold and clear
- 3Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
- 4Garnish with a lemon twist or olive and serve immediately
