The classic or traditional Martini is one of the oldest and original martini drinks dating back to the late 19th century. It is often called a Gin Martini. As with most drinks that has been around for a while, there are several different variations of the drink. Some vary the proportions of the ingredients while others vary in the preparation of the drink itself.
Although the same or a similar drink also made with Vodka also called Martini, the original or a classic martini is usually made with Gin. The proportion of the dry vermouth varies wildly depending on how dry you want the drink to be. It can also prepared by either shaking or stirring.
Ingredients
- 3 shots of Gin
- 1/2 shot of Dry Vermouth
- Olives to garnish
Recipe or Preparation
- Add ice cubes into a martini shaker
- Add 3 shots of Gin into the shaker
- Add 1/2 shot of the dry vermouth into the shaker
- Use a long bar spoon and stir the ingredients well
- Strain the contents of the shaker into a chilled martini glass
- Garnish with Olives
Variations and Similar Drinks
Vodkatini or Vodka Martini: The Vodka martini uses Vodka instead of the Gin.
Upside Down Martini: The proportions of the Gin and Vermouth is almost reversed in this drink. The Vermouth is equal or more in proportion to the Gin.
Extra Dry Martini: Use very little of the dry vermouth to make the martini “drier“. Just rinsing the martini glass with a dash of vermouth and discarding the excess, will amount to a very dry Gin martini.
Tips
- A Gin Martini are usually stirred rather than shaken. But you may shake the contents of the shaker rather than stirring if you prefer.
- The amount of dry vermouth used varies wildly between recipes. The martini is said to get “drier” as you decrease the amount of vermouth used. For a very dry martini, use little to no vermouth at all.
- Some earlier versions of the Martini called for a couple of dashes of orange bitters as well.
- Sometimes, the drink is served over ice in a short ball. But a classic martini should always be served up in a martini glass.
