The Martini is a cocktail that has stood the test of time. Its origins date back to the late 1800s, and it has since become a staple in bars and homes around the world. The Martini is a simple yet elegant drink, made with just a few ingredients: gin or vodka, vermouth, and a garnish of olives or a twist of lemon.
To make a classic Martini, you will need:
2.5 oz gin or vodka
0.5 oz dry vermouth
olives or a twist of lemon for garnish
To start, fill a mixing glass or shaker with ice. Add the gin or vodka and vermouth to the glass or shaker. Stir or shake the ingredients until well chilled. This step is crucial as it ensures that the drink is properly diluted and chilled. The dilution from the ice and the stirring or shaking process helps to release the flavours of the gin or vodka and the vermouth, creating a well-balanced and smooth drink.
When it comes to the gin or vodka, you can use any brand you prefer. Some people prefer a London Dry gin, which is a type of gin that is made using a specific method and ingredients. Other people prefer a vodka that is made from a specific type of grain, such as wheat or potatoes. The choice is yours, and it will depend on your personal preference.
The vermouth is also an important ingredient in the Martini. Vermouth is a fortified wine that is flavoured with a variety of herbs, spices, and botanicals. It’s a crucial ingredient as it adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the drink. The classic Martini calls for dry vermouth, which is a type of vermouth that is not sweet, but you can also use sweet vermouth, which will add a slight sweetness to the drink.
When it comes to garnish, the classic Martini is often garnished with olives, but a twist of lemon can also be used. Some people also garnish with a cocktail onion. The garnish adds an additional layer of flavour and also makes the drink more visually appealing.
When serving Martini’s, it’s always good to serve it chilled, to achieve this you could put the glass in the freezer for a few minutes before using it. This will help to keep the drink cold and also prevent it from becoming too diluted.