Vodka Martini cocktail recipe

The Vodka Martini is an iconic cocktail, a common variation of the original Gin-based Martini, and one of the most popular cocktails in the world.

Also known as the Vodkatini, all you need to make one is some chilled Vodka, a splash of Dry Vermouth, and a garnish of Lemon Zest and a Green Olive. Simple, but oh-so sophisticated, it carries a strong and robust Vodka flavor, smoothly laced with Dry Vermouth. You’ll also get a hint of citrus from the Lemon Zest and a salty kick from the Olive.

“This cocktail is one of the most intimidating cocktails because, although it’s only two ingredients, it’s easy to make but hard to master,” says Ricardo ‘Rico’ Dynan, Bartender and Absolut Global Brand Ambassador. “It’s a showpiece. When have you ever been to a party and not been impressed by a Vodka Martini?”

How To Make a Vodka Martini

What You’ll Need

• Jigger or Measuring Instrument 
• Martini Glass
• Peeler
• Cocktail Stick
• Mixing Glass
• Bar Spoon
• Fine Mesh Strainer

How to Mix

1. Fill up a Mixing Glass with Ice Cubes.
2. Pour in the Absolut Vodka.
3. Add the Dry Vermouth.
4. Gently stir with a Bar Spoon until chilled.
5. Strain the mix using a Fine Mesh Strainer into an ice-cold Martini Glass.
6. Garnish with a twist of Lemon Zest and a Green Olive on top. Voila, your Vodka Martini is ready.
7. Sip and enjoy!

 The History of The Vodka Martini

The exact origin of the original Gin-based Martini is unclear, let alone the Vodka Martini. Whatever its origins, we do know that the Martini has evolved considerably over time.

Long story short, by 1922, the Martini had evolved into its classic form: a 2:1 ratio of London Dry Gin to Dry Vermouth, stirred with ice in a Mixing Glass. The standard garnish became either a Green Olive or a Lemon Peel twist over time.

The exact history of the Vodka Martini is, however, unknown. We do know that its first print appearance was in 1935. In recent decades, Gin has even been replaced by Vodka as the preferred choice of spirit for a Martini. 

One of the earliest references to a Vodka Martini dates back to the 1930s, where it was known as a “Kangaroo Cocktail”, as it was reportedly a favorite of the Australian ambassador to the United States.

The “Vodkatini” became increasingly popular during the 1980s thanks to everyone’s favorite fictional British spy, known for his sharp suits, love of Martinis, and thrilling espionage adventures.

Tips for Making The Perfect Vodka Martini

• Chill to perfection
  The perfect Martini is one where the Vodka and the Martini Glasses have been chilled overnight. When you pour the Vodka, you’ll notice its viscosity thickens after freezing, making it even smoother. Chilled Glasses and chilled Vodka will enhance the overall drinking experience. 
• Use the best Olives for a Martini
  Choose Olives that complement the bold flavors of the cocktail itself. You can’t go wrong with Spanish Queen Olives or Spanish Manzanilla Olives. These work wonderfully in a Vodka Martini.

Variations of The Vodka Martini

• Absolut Gibson Martini
  Instead of the traditional Lemon Twist and Green Olive, place a Pickled Onion in your drink and you’ve got a delicious Gibson Martini. A Gibson Martini offers a crisp, dry flavor with a tangy, briny twist from the onion. Discover our Absolut Gibson Martini.
  
• Dry Martini
  The classic Gin-based Dry Martini…perfected. Learn how to make a classic Dry Martini.
• Espresso Martini
  Arguably the most popular and most beloved Martini variation of them all. The Espresso Martini does not contain Gin nor Vermouth but instead is made of Vodka, Espresso and Kahlúa (Coffee Liqueur), which are elegantly combined to create an after-dinner cocktail like no other. Let us show you how to make the perfect Espresso Martini.

• Lemon Drop Martini
  Another popular vodka-based Martini variant. A Lemon Drop Martini consists of Absolut Citron (Lemon-Flavored Vodka), freshly squeezed Lemon Juice, Triple Sec, Simple Syrup, and Lemon Zest. The Lemon Drop Martini is known for its fresh and tangy flavor profile.
  
  The combination of Absolut Citron and freshly squeezed lemon juice creates a bright and zesty base. The Triple Sec adds a hint of sweetness while the lemon zest provides an aromatic finish, making it a perfect blend of sweet and sour. Here’s our Lemon Drop Martini recipe.
  

Serving and Garnish Ideas for a Vodka Martini

The two most popular garnishes for a Martini are Olives and Lemon Twists. Most bars or restaurants will ask which you prefer. Like the choice of spirit (i.e. Gin vs Vodka), it comes down to personal preference. 

Rico prefers a Lemon Twist. Simply peel a strip of Lemon Peel, squeeze it over the drink to release the oils, and drop it into the Glass.

Olives are particularly popular for Vodka-based Martinis. Skewer three Green Olives on a Cocktail Stick for a classic touch.

Batch Martinis
Prepare Martinis the night before a party or so that you’re always prepared for a spontaneous visit from a friend.

In the video above, Rico shows how to make a large batch of Martinis using a single bottle of Absolut Vodka. No ice, no stirring. The ratio is 9 parts Vodka to one-part Dry Vermouth. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Remove two parts of Absolut Vodka from the bottle
2. Add two parts Dry Vermouth directly into the bottle.
3. Place the bottle in the freezer, along with your Martini Glasses.
4. After chilling overnight, you’re ready to serve. No stirring or ice needed—just pour directly into each Glass.