Dry Martini

What is a Dry Martini?

A Dry Martini is a classic cocktail that is made with either gin or vodka, depending on preference, followed by a splash of dry vermouth. It’s then garnished with a lemon twist or a green olive.

Whether sipped at a glamorous soirée or a quiet evening at home, there’s no question that the Dry Martini exudes an air of sophistication.

What Does a Dry Martini Taste Like?

Like the Gin-based Singapore Sling, the Swedish Sling is akin to a fruity punch but with a sophisticated twist, resulting in a more complex and layered flavor.

The sweet and tangy notes from the Cherry Liqueur and Pineapple Juice are complemented by a citrusy twist from the Lime Juice… and then there’s those delicious Grapefruit notes from the Absolut Grapefruit.
As Rico explains, “Absolut Grapefruit works great when you’re missing those Gin-juniper flavors. You’re going to get everything you want here with the Grapefruit (Flavored Vodka).”

The History of the Dry Martini

The exact origin of the Martini is unclear, but several theories suggest it originated in either Martinez or San Francisco, California, during the 1800s Gold Rush.

It’s believed that the Martini took on its recognizable form in the 1890s, combining London Dry Gin and Dry Vermouth at a 2:1 ratio. Just like today, the mixture was stirred in a Mixing Glass with Ice Cubes, but was also optionally enhanced with Orange or Aromatic Bitters, before being strained into a chilled Cocktail Glass.

Depending on your preference, a classic Dry Martini can be made with either Gin or Vodka although the original Martini was made with Gin.

Tips for Making the Perfect Dry Martini

• The perfect dilution
  When stirring the mixture in your Mixing Glass, Rico advises to “Stir until perfectly cold and perfectly diluted.” How do you know when it’s perfectly diluted? Give it a little taste on a Bar Spoon and if you like what you taste, then it’s the perfect dilution for you.
• Chill your Martini Glass
  A well-chilled glass is a simple yet essential step in crafting the perfect Dry Martini, so be sure to chill your glassware in advance.

Variations of a Dry Martini

A classic 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. So, with this in mind, we offer three variations of a Dry Martini:

• Vodka Martini
  Although Gin was 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.
• Dirty Martini
  If you love salty, savory flavors then the Dirty Martini is for you. The Dirty Martini is one of the most loved savory cocktails in the world. Similar to a Dry Martini but with the inclusion of Olive Brine and instead of Lemon Zest, it’s garnished with an Olive. Discover our Dirty Martini recipe.
• Gibson Martini
  The Gibson Martini is the same as a Dry Martini but substitutes the Lemon Zest garnish with a Cocktail Onion. Here’s how to make a Gibson Martini.

Serving and Garnish Ideas for a Dry Martini

A Dry Martini is typically garnished with a Lemon Zest Twist or a Green Olive.

Rico’s personal favorite garnish for a Dry Martini is Lemon Zest. “I love Lemon Zest because you get those fresh, fresh aromas – (it’s) super zesty,” he says.

Use a Peeler to carefully remove a strip of Lemon Peel, avoiding the bitter white pith. Hold the Peel over your drink and gently twist it to release the aromatic oils before placing the Zest Twist into your Glass for a burst of Citrus flavor.