Dirty Martini

What is a Dirty Martini Cocktail?

A Dirty Martini is a classic cocktail made with chilled vodka or gin together with olive brine. It’s arguably the most popular savory cocktail ever. 

What Does a Dirty Martini Cocktail Taste Like?

Depending on whether you use gin or vodka, the profile of your Dirty Martini will differ. Do you want smooth and soft or floral and crisp? Regardless of which spirit you choose, a Dirty Martini is spirit forward and characterized by its delicious savory notes from the olive brine. 

So, how much olive brine should you put in a Dirty Martini? That’s the million dollar question…because it’s up to you. That’s right — 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.”

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.

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

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.