History of the Classic Martini
The Classic Martini, an enduring symbol of sophistication, has a mysterious origin with various tales surrounding its creation. The most widely accepted story traces its roots back to the late 19th century in the United States. One account suggests that the Martini was born in San Francisco, where it was first mixed by a bartender named Jerry Thomas in the 1860s. He crafted the drink for a miner heading to the town of Martinez, hence the name “Martini.”
Another version claims that the drink was created in New York at the Knickerbocker Hotel around 1912, gaining fame as the preferred drink of influential figures, particularly during the Prohibition era when gin, the key ingredient, was readily available through bootlegging. Over time, the Martini evolved, with the gin-to-vermouth ratio being adjusted to suit different palates.
The Martini’s association with Hollywood and its portrayal in films, notably by James Bond who famously ordered his “shaken, not stirred,” cemented its status as a cultural icon.
Taste Notes
The Classic Martini is a cocktail of refinement, known for its crisp, clean, and dry profile.
- Primary Flavors: The drink is characterized by the dominant taste of gin, which brings forward botanical and herbal notes, primarily juniper, with a hint of citrus.
- Secondary Flavors: The dry vermouth, while subtle, adds a slight sweetness and a layer of complexity, balancing the gin’s assertiveness with earthy and floral undertones.
- Mouthfeel: The Martini has a smooth, slightly viscous mouthfeel, especially when well-chilled, offering a cool and refreshing experience.
- Aroma: The aroma is predominantly herbal and piney from the gin, with a subtle hint of the vermouth’s floral bouquet.
- Finish: The finish is crisp and clean, often leaving a lingering taste of juniper with a slight bitterness.
When garnished with an olive, the Martini takes on a faint briny note, adding depth to the drink. Alternatively, a lemon twist adds a bright citrusy aroma and a touch of zestiness to each sip. The Classic Martini remains a symbol of elegance, best enjoyed in a chilled glass, sipped slowly to appreciate its nuanced flavors.
CLASSIC MARTINI
2
minutesMartini glass
Green olives or lemon twist or both
The amount of vermouth in this classic can be tweaked to makeit more or less dry (for technique).
Ingredients
2½ oz. gin or vodka
½ oz. dry vermouth
1 Spanish Queen olive or lemon twist, for garnish
Directions
- Pour the gin or vodka and vermouth into a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir gently (if using gin) with a bar spoon. or cover with a Boston shaker and shake well for 15 to 20 seconds (if using vodka), and strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a Spanish Queen olive or lemon twist.
