10 Types of Martinis
Every Home Bartender
Should Try
WRITTEN BY: SCOTT VAN DORT
From traditional Gin-based Martinis to modern versions made with Fresh Fruit, this drinks collection offers 10 types of Martinis every home bartender should try. Master these, and you’ve got the perfect drink for any occasion.
But first, when you hear the word Martini, the first thing that likely comes to mind is three iconic words: “Shaken, not stirred,” forever immortalized by the suavest character to ever grace the silver screen.
Or you might picture elegantly dressed patrons holding classic Dry Martinis in a dimly lit cocktail lounge. Both associations are correct…but only part of the story.
Today, there are as many Martini variations as there are spirits on the top shelf of a bar, each with its own twist to create a unique drink. Beyond classic Martinis, such as the Dry Martini, Vesper Martini and Dirty Martini, today, there are also Neo-Martinis and Fresh Fruit Martinis (aka Fruitinis), including the Pornstar Martini, Appletini (aka Apple Martini) and Pineapple Martini, which rank among the most popular cocktails on the planet.
Shaken or stirred, we highlight ten of our favorite types of Martinis:
The Citrus Martini blends Absolut Citron (Lemon-Flavored Vodka), Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice, Triple Sec and a touch of Simple Syrup to create a delicious citrusy Martini.
Think about it – where a classic Vodka Martini is traditionally garnished with a Lemon Twist, the Citrus Martini dials up the sweetness and citrus flavors.
Here’s how to make a Citrus Martini.
2. Dry Martini
We’ve already spoken about the Dry Martini, but we couldn’t resist adding it here. A timeless icon of elegance and sophistication in the world of cocktails, a classic Dry Martini is made with Gin and a hint of Dry Vermouth, garnished with a Lemon Twist. And it’s just perfect. Discover the recipe for a Dry Martini.
3. Chocolate Martini
A classic Martini already carries an air of decadence with its inherent sophistication, so imagine when you mix Vodka with White Chocolate Liqueur and garnish with an Almond.
This luxurious twist transforms the traditional Martini into an indulgent treat, combining the smooth, clean taste of Vodka with the rich, creamy notes of White Chocolate Liqueur. Sip and enjoy! Here’s how to make a Chocolate Martini.
“Elegant and balanced – it is incredibly sweet but it’s not too sweet like candy. It’s very smooth, and very stiff,” says Rico.
There are many variations of a Lychee Martini – some made with Gin, others with Vodka; some with fresh Lychees, others with Lychee Juice or Soju. But they all share one thing in common: “It’s a drink that encapsulates a time and place in history, which is the 2000s,” says Rico.
Don’t miss the cocktail hack in the video below, where Rico shows you a very easy way to make purée for your cocktails at home, using a blender and canned fruits. Discover the recipe for a Lychee Martini.
5. Dirty Martini
Similar to a Dry Martini but with the addition of Olive Juice, the Dirty Martini stands as a timeless cocktail icon and one of the most popular savory cocktails of all time.
A classic Dirty Martini is made with Gin, Dry Vermouth, Olive Juice and garnished with a Green Olive. How much Olive Juice should you add? You know the answer by now – it’s your choice, after all, it’s your drink. Learn how to make a classic Dirty Martini.
6. Vodka Martini
“When have you ever been to a party and not been impressed by a Vodka Martini?”, asks Rico. He has a very good point; the Vodka Martini is one of the most popular cocktails in the world. And for good reason. It’s incredible.
Also known as the Vodkatini, it’s made with Vodka, a splash of Dry Vermouth, and garnished with both a Lemon Twist and a Green Olive. It satisfies on every level. Discover how to make a Vodka Martini.
7. Pineapple Martini
Let’s keep those Pineapple flavors coming! In the 1990s, when fruit-centric Martinis really came of age, cocktails were all about laidback fun, which makes anything from that golden era perfect for an easy night in.
The Pineapple Martini was a legend of the 90s and still hits the spot today with the winning combination of Vodka and Pineapple Juice.
The sweetness of the Pineapple will, of course, depend on the season and region so you may need to play around with the sweetness levels with or without the addition of Simple Syrup. Here’s how to make a Pineapple Martini.
8. Pornstar Martini
Also known as the Passion Star Martini, this modern classic is not only one of the most popular Fruitinis today but one of the most popular drinks, period.
The Pornstar Martini neither looks nor tastes anything like a classic Martini but is just as loved. Combining Vanilla-Flavored Vodka, Passion Fruit Purée, and fresh muddled Pineapple, it’s absolutely fruity-licious.
But wait, there’s more. The Pornstar Martini is traditionally served with a shot of Champagne (or Prosecco) on the side, looking every bit the celebration. Discover the recipe for a Pornstar Martini.
9. Apple Martini (aka Appletini)
Let’s stay in the 90s with another fruit Martini classic. The Apple Martini (also known as an Appletini) cocktail epitomizes the spirit of the glamorous cocktail culture of bustling urban lounges and chic social gatherings of 1990s America.
It mixes Vodka, Fresh Lemon Juice, Apple Liqueur, Apple Juice and a touch of Simple Syrup. It’s perfectly tart like a Granny Smith Apple. Learn how to make a classic Appletini.
10. Espresso Martini
We’ve saved the best – or at least the most popular cocktail – for last. Made with Vodka, Kahlúa Coffee Liqueur, and Freshly Brewed Coffee, this bold and elegant late night cocktail has captured the hearts of drink lovers everywhere with its rich, dark flavors and wonderfully frothy head like no other.
It’s the ultimate after-dinner Martini. Discover how to make an Espresso Martini.
OTHER MARTINIS YOU MIGHT ENJOY:
Absolut Pears Martini
Absolut Pears, Simple Syrup, Lemon Juice, Pear Puree, Pear, Lemon Zest
Cocktail recipes by ingredient
Top ten drinks for any occasion
Lemon Drop Shot
Absolut Citron, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Lemon, Sugar, Superfine, Ice Cubes
Cosmopolitan
Absolut Citron, Triple Sec, Lime Juice, Cranberry Juice (sweetened), Orange Zest, Ice Cubes
Bloody Mary
Absolut Vodka, Tomato Juice, Lemon Juice, Hot Sauce, Worcestershire Sauce, Ground Black Pepper, Garlic Salt, Lemon, Celery
Appletini
Absolut Vodka, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Apple Liqueur, Apple Juice, Ice Cubes
Long Island Iced Tea
Absolut Vodka, Light Rum, Gin, Tequila Blanco, Lemon Juice, Triple Sec, Cola, Lemon, Ice Cubes
Amaretto Sour
Amaretto, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Egg White, Maraschino, Orange, Ice Cubes
