The Martini is a timeless cocktail, offering a sophisticated mix of gin and vermouth, and garnished with an olive or a lemon twist. Simple yet elegant, this cocktail is perfect for those who appreciate a well-crafted drink. Whether you like it dry or with a touch of vermouth, mastering the Martini is an essential skill for any home bartender.
Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
Pour the gin and dry vermouth into the mixing glass.
Stir well for about 30 seconds until the mixture is chilled.
Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with a lemon twist or a green olive, and enjoy immediately.
For a dry martini, reduce the amount of vermouth to just a few drops. Use high-quality gin and vermouth for the best flavor. Stirring, rather than shaking, is key to a perfectly clear Martini. Chill your glass in the freezer before serving to keep the drink cold longer. If you prefer a slightly different flavor, you can substitute vodka for gin to make a Vodka Martini.