Martini
The Martini has long been the symbol of the classic cocktail and has been around for a little over a century. In its purist form, this drink is made with Gin and varying amounts of Vermouth and is stirred (despite what you've seen on James Bond) before serving. It can be garnished with an olive, a twist of lemon, or cocktail onions (at which point it's called a Gibson).
More recently, Vodka has been a popular substitute for Gin and more modern drinkers would probably expect their drink to be made with Vodka. Because Vodka is a neutral spirit, this allows for a little creativity behind the bar when it comes to flavoring - a point of outrage if you are a purist.
If you are preparing this drink for friends, there are a few things you should know. If the drink is ordered "dry," add a little less Vermouth and if it's ordered "extra dry," add even less Vermouth if any at all. Now that you're familiar with this cocktail icon, check out our whole collection of drinks from classic to contemporary and get mixing!
Fabulous Cocktail Recipe
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Start with a cocktail shaker and fill it with ice. Add 3 1/2 oz of Gin and 1/2 oz of Dry Vermouth (see the notes above about preparing dry and extra dry versions of this drink). Stir and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with Olives or a Lemon twist and serve.
Enjoy responsibly with friends! |
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