Martini
Also known as Dry Martini
The Martini is a very strong gin spirit-forward cocktail, herbal on the palate. Stirred and served in a cocktail glass. Also known as the Dry Martini. It's one of the International Bartenders Association's official unforgettables cocktails.
Flavor profile
- Tart
- 14 out of 100
- Bitter
- 31 out of 100
- Herbal
- 79 out of 100
- Boozy
- 100 out of 100
How to make a Martini
To make a Martini, stir with ice and strain into a cocktail glass: 1⅔ oz gin and ⅓ oz dry vermouth. Garnish with olive.
You'll need
- Gin1⅔ oz
- Dry Vermouth⅓ oz
- Olivegarnish
Make it dirty. A splash of olive brine turns it into the Dirty Martini. Works with gin or vodka.
Instructions
- 1
Chill a cocktail glass: fill it with ice and water while you mix, then tip it out.
- 2
Pour gin and dry vermouth into a mixing glass (any sturdy glass works).
- 3
Fill it with ice.
- 4
Stir for 20-30 seconds, until the outside is cold to the touch.
- 5
Strain into the chilled cocktail glass.
- 6
Garnish with an olive.
Why stir? Gin and dry vermouth are clear, so a gentle stir over ice chills and dilutes them without clouding the drink.
Martini questions
What does a Martini taste like?
Mostly herbal, with a noticeable alcohol warmth. It's a very strong drink at about 30% ABV once mixed.
How strong is a Martini?
About 30% ABV after mixing with ice, close to a neat spirit.
Is a Dry Martini the same as a Martini?
Yes. Dry Martini is another name for the Martini; the recipe on this page covers both.
What's the difference between a Martini and an Allies Cocktail?
Both use gin and dry vermouth. The Allies Cocktail uses Kummel. The Martini is the stronger of the two.
Should a Martini be shaken or stirred?
Stirred. Gin and dry vermouth are clear, so stirring chills it while keeping it silky; shaking would cloud it with tiny bubbles.
What glass do you serve a Martini in?
A cocktail glass.