Flip the script on Bond's favorite drink and go for the classic martini stirred — not shaken. Suave and sophisticated, just like James Bond himself, the classic martini is an international symbol of refined elegance. Whether you prefer gin's botanical notes or vodka's crisp taste, you've got to give this legendary libation a try.
How to Make a Classic Martini
The martini's origins are steeped in as much intrigue as any Bond book or film portrays. The drink began to take hold during Prohibition when illegal gin was readily available. Although it lost popularity at one point, it reclaimed its well-deserved spotlight during the modern cocktail renaissance. And with such a short ingredients list, it's a classic you can enjoy at home any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 2½ ounces gin or vodka
- ½ ounce dry vermouth
- Ice
- Olive or lemon twist for garnish
Instructions
- Chill a martini glass or coupe.
- In a mixing glass, add ice, gin, and dry vermouth.
- Stir rapidly to chill.
- Strain into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with an olive or lemon twist.
Make your martini dirty by adding a splash of olive brine. This gives a regular martini a slightly tangy and salty profile.
Related: 6 Buzzworthy Espresso Martini Recipes to Kick Start Cocktail Hour
4 Simple Variations and Substitutions to Try
Martinis are pretty fickle drinks, and switching up the ingredients and ratios too much can throw everything off balance. But you can make a few changes to better suit your personal tastes.
- Add a single dash of orange bitters for a slightly citrus taste.
- For a drier martini, use less vermouth.
- If you want just a whisper of vermouth, rinse the martini glass with dry vermouth then discard the vermouth.
- Fat-wash your vodka or gin to create an olive oil martini.
Garnishes That'll Dress Things Up
Garnishes add something exciting to colorless martinis, especially since they're optimally served in clear, pristine glassware. However, with a drink that has such a clean palette, any garnish can affect its flavor, so sticking with simple, striking garnishes is best.
- Use an orange peel instead of a lemon.
- Consider stuffed blue cheese olives for an added savory experience.
- Dropping in a few whole berries, like blueberries, cherries, or raspberries, adds color and a subtle burst of flavor.
- A cucumber ribbon also makes for a compelling visual and a crisp flavor.
We Prefer Ours Stirred, Not Shaken
Whether it's your finest gown or sleek suit, stir up some fun with a classic martini in hand. When it comes to a cocktail that has fineness, take a page out of the agent's playbook and indulge in a perfectly crafted martini like ours.
