Name: The Martini Guide
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The Martini Guide

Shaken or Stirred:
Crafting The Perfect Martini

Gin | Vermouth | Garnish

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Let’s start with
The Classic Martini recipe

The martini. A drink synonymous with sophistication, stirred or shaken (not both!), and perpetually shrouded in a veil of mystery. This recipe will guide you through the art of crafting the perfect classic martini, a testament to the power of simplicity and perfect balance.

Imagine the crystal-clear chill of gin (or vodka) mingling with the dry, botanical whisper of vermouth. A single olive or a twist of lemon adds a touch of elegance, while the entire experience is a masterclass in restraint. This introduction to the classic martini isn't just about creating a drink; it's about unlocking a timeless ritual, a conversation starter for sophisticated evenings, and a testament to the enduring power of a well-made cocktail. So, grab your shaker, chill your glass, and get ready to experience the essence of elegance in every sip.

Ingredients

2 fluid ounces gin or vodka
1 fluid ounce dry vermouth
Lemon peel, for garnish
Ice

Measurement Conversions: 1 fl oz = 1 shot = 30ml

How To Make

Chill your martini glass with ice and water. Set aside.
In a mixing glass, add ice, gin/vodka and vermouth. Stir until well chilled.
Discard the ice and water from your martini glass. Strain the martini mixture into your cold martini glass.
Express the oil of a lemon peel by twisting over the glass, then drop into the glass to garnish.

Variations

Because of the simplicity of this cocktail, the ratio of gin/vodka to vermouth has a huge impact on the final flavor of the martini. You can change the ratios to suit your taste, but bear in mind that the amount of alcohol in vermouth (typically around 18%) is around half of gin/vodka (typically around 40%)

Classic - 2:1 ratio

Dry Martini - 4:1 ratio

Half-Half - 1:1 ratio

Upside Down - 1:5 ratio

Notes

Gin or Vodka? Contrary to popular belief (or just James Bond fans) the original martini is made using gin as a base. A London dry gin to be exact as it offers a balance of juniper and botanicals. Vodka is a common alternative and because it is less complex than gin, it creates a simpler drink.

Explore these tasty variations to the OG version…

Espresso Martini

Classy Coffee Cocktail

Featured Image: Kike Salazar N | Unsplash

Dirty Martini

Dirty Yet Delicious

Featured Image: Freepik

Blue Martini

Visually Vibrant and Surreal

Featured Image: Sara Cervera | Unsplash

Pomegranate Martini

A Red Jewelled Delight

Featured Image: Mgg Vitchakorn | Unsplash

Apple Martini

Refreshing and Crisp

Featured Image: Mgg Vitchakorn | Unsplash

Lychee Martini

A Tropical Escape

Featured Image: Sharon Ang | Pixabay

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