How Do You Like Your Martini?

Date Posted:18 May 2019 

The Martini, possibly the most famous of gin cocktails, is an emblem of style and sophistication.  It can also generate many a lively disussion about its origins, though none are possible to verify.  It is also a cocktail which has transformed over time. The right proportions of gin and vermouth and the perfect Martini recipe can be fiercely debated.

Further popularised by Hollywood and James Bond, the fascination with this classic drink has been cemented in history. For further reading, Imbibe by David Wondrich, includes a 6-page appendix on the Martini.

The key to a great Martini is to pour quality ingredients. This is not a cocktail where you want to skimp because there are only two ingredients and, if one is inferior, it will bring down the entire drink. With each gin brand boasting a unique botanical lineup, you can experiment and make your own bespoke Martini combinations to find your favourite.
 
A Dry Martini
75ml gin
15ml dry vermouth
Ice
1 to 3 olives or a lemon twist
(Less vermouth will make it drier.)
 
A Traditional Martini
Gin and vermouth in a 3:1 ratio
 
A Martini cocktail
Add a dash of orange bitters
 
A Vodka Martini
Replace gin with vodka
 
A Perfect Martini
Equal parts sweet and dry vermouth
 
Shaken or Stirred?
 
For many, the rule is that clear drinks are stirred. But James Bond would beg to differ.
 
Stir: Place the gin and dry vermouth in a mixing glass. Add cubed ice and stir for 30 seconds until the Martini is chilled. Strain the drink into your chilled Martini glass.
 
Shake: Place the gin and dry vermouth in a cocktail shaker. Add cubed ice and shake vigorously for 10 seconds.  If you prefer ice shards floating at the top of your Martini, then simply strain the drink into your chilled Martini glass. If not, then strain through a fine-mesh strainer.
 
Dirty Martini
75ml​ gin (or vodka)
15ml ​dry vermouth
5-15ml olive brine (to taste)
Garnish: 1 or 3 olives

Vesper Martini
90ml gin 
30ml vodka
15ml Lillet
Garnish: lemon peel

Gibson Martini
75ml​ gin (or vodka)
15ml ​dry vermouth
Garnish: cocktail onion
 

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