Classic Martini
The classic gin Martini along with several different variations of the cocktail that have evolved over the years.
Servings: 1
Ingredients
- 2 ounces London dry gin can sub vodka
- 1/2 ounce dry vermouth I like Dolin, Noilly Prat
- 2 dashes orange bitters my preference but optional
- Lemon peel or olives for garnish I prefer lemon peel
Instructions
- Combine gin, vermouth, and optional bitters in a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir until chilled and strain into a chilled coupe or Nick and Nora glass.
- Express the lemon peel over the drink, wipe the rim with the peel, and garnish. Optionally garnish with olives instead of citrus. See notes below for common variations.
Notes
There are numerous variations of the Martini; depending on who you ask, you will get various ingredients and proportions. Here are a few of the most common variations:
Lemon twist or olive garnish: one adds subtle brine while the other adds fresh citrus aroma. Also, see the Tuxedo No. 2 for a slightly sweeter twist on the Martini.
Orange bitters: orange bitters are a common addition that accompanies a citrus peel garnish. This boosts the cocktail's overall citrus profile.
Gin versus vodka: by the 1930s, vodka appeared as a common substitute for gin, which to this day causes angst for purists. Even as a vodka hater, I encourage you to use what you like.
Wet versus dry: the dryness of a Martini speaks to the proportions of dry vermouth. Dry means less vermouth (less sweet) while wet means more vermouth (sweeter). Most recipes usually fall between 1/4-1 ounce of dry vermouth to 2 ounces of gin or vodka.
Dirty Martini: a dirty martini is the addition of olive juice along with an olive garnish, adding additional briny and salty flavor. Additions usually consist of 1/4-1/2 ounce of olive juice.
Nutrition
Serving: 1g | Calories: 142kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.01g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 1mg | Iron: 0.02mg