Original, timeless, and effortlessly chic, the dry martini stands as the pinnacle of cocktail sophistication. Our recipe strips it back to basics, ensuring every sip is as crisp as your favorite white shirt.
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect Balance: The precise ratio of gin to vermouth creates a harmony that’s neither too dry nor too sweet.
- Quality Ingredients: Using top-shelf gin and dry vermouth elevates the drink from good to unforgettable.
- Chilled to Perfection: Proper chilling techniques ensure your martini is refreshingly cold without being diluted.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz dry vermouth
- 1 dash orange bitters
- 1 lemon twist or olive for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Mixing glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Cocktail glass
Instructions
Step 1: Chill Your Glass
Begin by placing your cocktail glass in the freezer or filling it with ice water to chill. A cold glass is crucial for keeping your martini at the perfect temperature longer. Let it sit while you prepare the drink.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the gin, dry vermouth, and a dash of orange bitters. Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds. The goal is to chill the mixture without over-diluting it.
Step 3: Strain into the Chilled Glass
Discard the ice water from your cocktail glass if you used that method to chill it. Strain the mixed drink into the glass, ensuring a smooth pour without any ice chips.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Express the oils from a lemon twist over the drink, then drop it in or simply add an olive on a skewer. Serve immediately and enjoy the crisp, clean flavors of your perfectly made dry martini.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their martini game, consider these advanced tips. First, experiment with the gin to vermouth ratio to find your perfect balance; some prefer a 5:1 ratio for an extra dry martini. Second, always use fresh ice for mixing to ensure the cleanest taste. Lastly, the quality of your garnish can transform the drink; try a high-quality, brine-cured olive for a savory twist.
Recipe Variations
- Dirty Martini: Add a splash of olive brine for a salty, savory version.
- Vodka Martini: Substitute gin with vodka for a smoother, cleaner taste.
- Gibson: Garnish with a pickled onion instead of a lemon twist or olive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a martini without vermouth?
Technically, a martini without vermouth is just chilled gin. Vermouth adds complexity and balance, so we recommend including at least a small amount. However, for an ultra-dry martini, you can rinse the glass with vermouth then discard it before adding the gin.
Is shaking a martini wrong?
While shaking can aerate the drink and make it colder, it also dilutes it more and can bruise the gin, altering its flavor. Stirring is preferred for a smoother, clearer martini.
What’s the best gin for a dry martini?
A London dry gin is traditional, offering a crisp, juniper-forward profile that stands up well to vermouth. However, feel free to experiment with other styles to find your favorite.
Summary
The dry martini is a study in simplicity and elegance. With just a few quality ingredients and the right technique, you can craft a cocktail that’s both timeless and tailored to your taste.