CLASSIC COCKTAIL · 1850–1889
Martini
Gin and dry vermouth, stirred until ice-cold and served with an olive.
1888Historical classicResearched
The Martini evolved from the Martinez, which in turn grew out of the Manhattan. The first known recipe called a Martini appears in Harry Johnson’s 1888 Bartender Manual, made with Old Tom gin, sweet vermouth, orange curaçao, gomme syrup, Boker’s bitters and a lemon twist. Early Martinis were sweet and gin-based; the dry, vermouth-light version came later.
THE RECIPECrisp, dry and bracing
Ingredients
- Gin60 ml
- Dry vermouth10 ml
- Oliveto garnish
Method
Stir the gin and vermouth with plenty of ice until very cold. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with an olive on a pick.
Cocktail glass · no ice · olive