How To Make A Martini
For a number of martini lovers across the world, the best variation of martini amongst all the numerous variations available today is still the classic martini. Considered a symbol of style and elegance, the martini offers more than just invigorating sips of liquor. However, considering that the origin of martini is still shrouded in mystery, there are a number of different versions of its invention, each with a slightly different recipe. So, while the basic ingredients are commonly accepted, the perfect recipe for the classic martini is still open to debate.
Even though different recipes have been presented as that of the original martini, all of them include vermouth as an ingredient of the cocktail. Vermouth is a fortified wine which is flavored with a mix of various botanicals and herbs. Incidentally there are two types of vermouths, both of which can be used in the makings of a martini. Sweet vermouth which originated in Italy is amber in color, and is slightly sweet. On the other hand, dry vermouth comes from France and is clear in color and without the sweet taste. It is believed than during the Prohibition, the quality of available liquor was so bad that vermouth was used to mask the original taste of the spirit. However, over a period of time, dry vermouth has come to be favored over the sweet version and a martini is considered to be dry or not depending upon the amount of vermouth used in it. The lesser the vermouth, the drier the martini is considered to be.
The other important question in the preparation of the perfect martini is whether to shake it or stir it. James Bond has indeed made the shaken variety more popular than the stirred, but both are considered to be acceptable versions of the classic martini. While the shaken version has a slightly opaqueness about it, the stirred martini is usually clear.
The other problem posed in the making of the classic martini is that of the garnish to be used. In different versions of the invention of the cocktail, different garnishes have been used including olives, cherry, lemon slice or lemon peel. Today, an even larger variety of martini garnishes are available to suit every palette, but it is still a tough choice to make. The most popular garnish is vermouth soaked olives as it also removes the need to add vermouth to the martini mix, especially if one prefers vermouth in lesser quantities in their drink.
The basic recipe for martini is as follows:
Ingredients:
Preparation:
- Pour the ingredients into a mixing glass or a Martini Shaker filled with ice cubes.
- Stir or Shake for 30 seconds.
- Strain the concoction into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Add a dash of orange or Angostura bitters if desired
- Garnish with the olive or lemon twist.
For more variations, check out the Martini Guide Recipe section
Read more about the Martini, Martini Equipment, Martini Ingredients, Martini Glasses or Martini Recipes
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