Sleek, classy, and an icon, this classic martini recipe is a refreshing cocktail that you can make in 30 seconds. It’s undoubtedly the world’s most famous cocktail. It’s crisp and spirit-forward, thanks to the mix of two spirits. It’s a strong drink, so it is perfect for sipping. The martini is a timeless drink that every home bartender should know as its fitting for many occasions. For another classic cocktail, try my Sidecar recipe or Negroni recipe. Both are just as simple to make.
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Vodka or gin — I recommend using good quality vodka or gin, so you end up with a silky cocktail. The better quality of vodka or gin you use, the more smooth the cocktail will be. Gin is full of botanical flavors, whereas vodka is more neutral in taste.
Vermouth — be sure to pick up dry white vermouth and not sweet red vermouth. Dry vermouth is a fortified wine with a crisp tart flavor that tastes like a dry white wine. Keep in mind that vermouth needs to be stored in the refrigerator and used within two months once you open the bottle.
How to Make a Martini
1. In a mixing glass with ice, add the vodka or gin.
2. Add the vermouth.
3. Stir for 30 seconds or until well chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or olives.
Pro Tips for Making This Recipe
- Chill the glass by placing it in the freezer for at least 30 minutes for an ice-cold martini recipe. Alternatively, quick-chill the glass by adding cracked or crushed ice to the glass while you make the drink. Remove the ice and strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.
- Avoid adding crushed ice to the shaker as the ice will melt quicker and water down the cocktail.
- You are meant to sip martinis, so avoid serving it with ice, or the drink will be diluted.
- If you do not have a bar spoon, then a chopstick, skewer, or even a long dessert spoon works in a pinch.
- If you’re using an opened bottle of vermouth, make sure it’s still fresh. Old vermouth tastes flavorless and somewhat sour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Shaken vs. stirred?
James Bond famously requests his martinis shaken, not stirred. However, the proper way to make a martini is by stirring. You should stir cocktails that contain only alcohol-based ingredients and shake cocktails that contain non-alcoholic ingredients. Stirring gives the drink a silky mouth-feel, whereas if shaken, it mixes air into the cocktail, creates a cloudy-looking cocktail, and bruises the gin.
Should I use vodka or gin?
Both options are great for martinis, but it all comes down to personal taste. If you like botanical flavors, then use gin for a gin martini. But if you want a smoother, more modern taste, use vodka for a vodka martini.
Which garnish should I use?
Again, the garnish you use is up to you. A martini with a lemon twist adds a touch of freshness and citrusy note and keeps the martini crisp and refreshing. An olive (or three) adds a salty taste to the cocktail. Spanish Queen Olives or Spanish Manzanilla Olives are great olive choices. Remember, for the best of luck, always use an odd number of olives.
What are some variations?
- Add a splash of olive brine to make a dirty martini.
- Decrease the amount of vermouth to make a dry martini.
- Use equal parts of vodka/gin and dry vermouth to make a 50-50 martini.
- Garnish with tiny cocktail onions to make a Gibson.
- For a sweeter martini, try my French Martini Recipe.
- For a sweet but tart drink, try my Lemon Drop Martini Recipe.
- For a cooler and more refreshing drink, try my Cucumber Martini Recipe.
If you love this recipe try these out!
If you’ve tried this classic Martini recipe, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and let me know how you got on in the comments below, I love hearing from you!
Martini Recipe
Equipment
- Martini glass, chilled
- Mixing glass
- Cocktail stirrer
- Cocktail or fine mesh strainer
Ingredients
- 2½ ounces vodka or gin
- ½ ounce dry vermouth
- lemon twist or olives for garnish
Instructions
- In the mixing glass with ice, combine the vodka or gin and vermouth. Stir for 30 seconds or until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or olives.
Notes
- Chill the glass by placing it in the freezer for at least 30 minutes for an ice-cold martini. Alternatively, quick-chill the glass by adding cracked or crushed ice to the glass while you make the drink. Remove the ice and strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.
- Avoid adding crushed ice to the shaker as the ice will melt quicker and water down the cocktail.
- You are meant to sip martinis, so avoid serving it with ice, or the drink will be diluted.
- If you do not have a bar spoon, a chopstick, skewer, or even a long dessert spoon works in a pinch.
- If you’re using an opened bottle of vermouth, make sure it’s still fresh. Old vermouth tastes flavorless and somewhat sour.
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