Among the pantheon of classic cocktails, the dry martini stands out as a drink that exudes sophistication and yet is simple to make.

Whether you are a seasoned mixologist or a cocktail enthusiast, using our dry martini recipe and an Interplay cocktail shaker set, you can create a drink for the ages.

History of the Dry Martini Recipe

The origins of the Dry Martini are as stirred and shaken as the drink itself. One popular story traces the martini back to Martinez, California. It was supposedly crafted during the gold rush in the mid-1800s.

Another credits a bartender named Martini di Arma di Taggia at New York City’s Knickerbocker Hotel in the early 1900s, who mixed dry gin and dry vermouth for the first time.

Over the decades, the Martini evolved from a sweeter concoction to the dryer versions preferred today, largely influenced by changing tastes and the availability of quality gin

Ingredients for Dry Martini Recipe

A traditional Dry Martini is beautifully simple, requiring only a few high-quality ingredients:

• Gin: The spirit base of the martini, gin’s botanicals are the heart of the cocktail’s flavor. A high quality, dry gin is preferred for its crispness and subtlety.
• Dry Vermouth: This fortified wine complements the gin with a hint of herbal and floral notes, adding depth without overwhelming the spirit. The ratio of gin to vermouth varies according to taste, but classic dry martinis typically feature a higher proportion of gin to vermouth.
• Ice: Fresh, clear ice is crucial for chilling the mixture without diluting it too quickly.
• Garnish: Options typically include a lemon twist or olives. The lemon twist adds a touch of citrus oil to brighten the drink subtly, while olives contribute a briny flavor that enhances the gin’s botanicals.

Classic Dry Martini Recipe

Our recipe is based on the traditional dry martini taste, so you’re getting a perfectly balanced and elegant cocktail.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Calorie Count: Approximately 140 calories per serving

Ingredients:

• Gin: 60 ml (2 oz)
• Dry Vermouth: 10 ml (0.34 oz)
• Ice Cubes
• Garnish: Lemon twist or olives

Method:

1. Chill the Martini Glass: Place your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes to ensure it is thoroughly chilled.
2. Mix: In the Interplay cocktail shaker, add plenty of ice, gin, and dry vermouth.
3. Stir: Gently stir the mixture with the mixing spoon for about 30 seconds. Make sure not to bruise the gin and keep the mixture clear and smooth.
4. Strain: Strain the mixture into the chilled martini glass to prevent any ice shards in your drink.
5. Garnish: For a classic aromatic touch, express a lemon twist over the drink and drop it in, or skewer a few olives on a cocktail pick and lay it across the rim of the glass.

Serving Suggestions

• Temperature: Always serve the dry martini ice cold. The chilliness enhances the smoothness of the gin and the crispness of the vermouth.
• Setting: Perfect as an aperitif, the dry martini pairs wonderfully with light appetizers like seafood canapés, cheese boards, or charcuterie, setting a sophisticated tone for the evening.

Garnishing Options

• Lemon Twist: Adds a citrusy, bright note that enhances the botanicals in the gin.
• Olives: A few green olives add a salty, briny depth that complements the dryness of the martini.
• Onion: For a Gibson martini, substitute olives/onion for a pickled onion to add a vinegary twist.

The Ever-Evolving World of Martinis

If if you feel the dry martini is too dry, or you prefer something a little different, give one of these martinis a shot:

1. Rum Espresso Martini: A twist on the traditional Espresso Martini, using dark rum instead of vodka to provide a deeper, caramel-like flavor profile.
2. Vegan Espresso Martini: Crafted with plant-based ingredients, this version uses a vegan-friendly coffee liqueur. It swaps out honey-based syrups for agave or simple syrup, ensuring it’s suitable for vegan diets.
3. Raspberry Espresso Martini: Adds a splash of raspberry liqueur or muddled fresh raspberries to the classic Espresso Martini for a fruity and vibrant variation.
4. Twisted Espresso Martini Cocktail: This variation introduces unique flavors such as vanilla extract or a spice like cinnamon. It offers a warm, aromatic twist to the traditional recipe.
5. Pornstar Martini: Not a traditional martini but a modern classic, this cocktail features vanilla vodka, passion fruit liqueur, and limejuice. It is usually served with a shot of sparkling wine on the side.
6. Dirty Martini: It is a saltier, more olive-forward version of the classic Dry Martini. This cocktail includes olive brine in the mix and is typically garnished with one or more olives.
7. Vesper Martini: Made famous by James Bond, the Vesper Martini is stronger than a typical martini. It is made with a mixture of gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc or another aromatized wine, garnished with a lemon twist for a citrusy note.

Conclusion

Let’s face it, if you haven’t yet mastered the dry martini, you can’t call yourself a mast mixologist or anything close to it. And with the Interplay Concepts cocktail shakers, this journey to mixology greatness will be all the more easy.

So, now that you’ve learned how to create the classic Dry Martini, why not give it a shot tonight? Experiment with the garnish or the vermouth ratio to find your perfect blend. Share your martini creations with us on social media or in the comments below.