DIRTY MARTINI cocktail RECIPE

WRITTEN BY: SCOTT VAN DORT

The Dirty Martini is one of the most popular savory cocktails of all time. One sip and it’s easy to understand why. Sexy, confident and alluring, it boasts the flavors of smooth Gin (or Vodka) with delicious salty and savory notes from the Olive Brine. 

How much Olive Brine should you add to a Dirty Martini? Well, that’s up to you! You see, the key to a great Dirty Martini is personal preference.

In the video below, Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan – Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador – shares, “If you want more Vermouth in your Martini that’s fine, it’s still a Martini. I’m sure your Martini is nice if you like your Martini how you like your Martini. It’s a personal drink.”

Ready to make your perfect Dirty Martini? 

How To Make a Dirty Martini

What You’ll Need

• Jigger 
• Mixing Glass
• Bar Spoon
• Julep Strainer
• Martini Glass

How to Mix

1. Measure and pour Dry Vermouth into a Mixing Glass. 
2. Measure and pour Gin.
3. Measure and pour Olive Juice.
4. Fill the Mixing Glass with Ice Cubes
5. Use a Bar Spoon and stir until chilled.
6. Place a Julep Strainer into the Mixing Glass then pour the mixture into a Martini Glass.
7. Garnish by placing a single Green Olive into the Glass.
8. Sip and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Perfect Dirty Martini

• Stir to perfection
  “Stir until perfectly cold and perfectly diluted,” suggests Rico. When you’re stirring the mixture in the Mixing Glass, how do you know when it’s perfectly diluted? Rico recommends giving it a little taste on a Bar Spoon and if you like what you taste, then it’s the perfect dilution for you! Otherwise, keep stirring.

• Chill your glass
  Always chill your glassware in advance, especially when you’re making a Martini. A well-chilled glass is a simple yet essential step in crafting the perfect Martini and enhances the overall experience.

• Experiment with Brine
  Infuse your own Olive Brine with herbs or spices for a personalized touch.

The History of the Dirty Martini

The exact origin of the Martini is unclear, but several theories suggest it originated in either Martinez, California, or San Francisco, California, during the 1800s Gold Rush. Regardless of its precise origins, the Gin Martini was born and quickly gained popularity.

The Dirty Martini, however, is believed to have originated in 1901, when a New York bartender drew inspiration from the classic Martini’s Olive Garnish by muddling Olives and adding a splash of Olive Brine.

It took decades before it gained popularity, but it eventually became one of the most popular savory cocktails of all time. It even found favor with an American president, who frequently mixed them for guests at the White House.

Depending on your preference, a classic Dirty Martini can be made with either Gin or Vodka.

Variations of a Dirty Martini

Throughout the years, countless Martini variations have emerged, including fresh fruit Martinis like the Appletini and Neo-Martinis such as The Espresso Martini and The Pornstar Martini.

Traditionally, a Martini is made with Gin (or Vodka) and Vermouth. Any additional ingredients, such as Bitters, are used sparingly to add just a hint of flavor, enhancing the drink’s profile. With this in mind, we offer three variations of a Dirty Martini:

• Vodka Martini
  Although Gin was originally used to make the first Martini and remains a popular choice today, Vodka has since become the preferred spirit for this classic cocktail. Learn how to make a Vodka Martini.

• Dry Martini
  Not a fan of Olives or prefer a zesty twist? The Dry Martini is typically garnished with Lemon Zest and, unlike a Dirty Martini, does not include Olive Juice. Discover our Dry Martini recipe.

• Gibson Martini
  The Gibson Martini is the same as a Dry Martini but replaces the Lemon Zest with a Cocktail Onion. Here’s how to make a Gibson Martini.

Serving and Garnish Ideas for a Dirty Martini

A classic Dirty Martini demands a Green Olive and, of course, a splash of Olive Brine served in a Martini Glass. Simple and elegant.