Few cocktails carry the same timeless allure and sophistication as the Martini. With its clean and elegant presentation and iconic presence in everything from classic literature to Hollywood blockbusters, the Martini has become more than just a drink—it’s a cultural symbol. Whether sipped in a smoky jazz lounge or clinked at a rooftop soiree, different Martini styles exude effortless refinement.
Its minimalist nature is what makes the Martini so appealing: just a few ingredients, artfully combined, can deliver a drinking experience that’s bold, nuanced, and deeply satisfying. But don’t be fooled by its simplicity—what separates an average Martini from an unforgettable one is the quality of its base spirit and the precision of its preparation. Be it vodka or gin, vermouth or bitters, every element needs to be good quality and perfectly balanced to let the clarity and character of the drink shine.
Today, Martini lovers are no longer confined to one rigid recipe. With creative variations and new interpretations emerging around the world, there’s a Martini for every palate. So, let’s explore the different styles that continue to evolve this iconic cocktail while celebrating what has made it legendary for decades.
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The Classic Martini: Where It All Begins
At its core, a martini is simple: spirit + vermouth. But that simplicity hides a whole world of personalisation.
Traditionally, a martini is made with gin and dry vermouth, stirred over ice and strained into a chilled glass. Garnish it with an olive or a lemon twist, and you’ve got yourself a timeless drink.
But oh, the devil is in the details.
Dry vs. Wet: How Much Vermouth Is In Your Glass?
🔹 Dry Martini
This doesn’t mean the drink is dehydrated—it refers to the amount of dry vermouth used. A dry martini has just a splash (or even a rinse) of vermouth, making it more spirit-forward. It’s crisp, clean, and potent.
🔹 Extra Dry
Even less vermouth—sometimes none at all. You might just ask the bartender to clinic the vermouth bottle against your glass. Perfect for those who love their martinis straight-up and unapologetically strong.
🔹 Wet Martini
The opposite of dry. More vermouth equals a softer, more aromatic drink. A wet martini typically uses equal parts gin (or vodka) and vermouth, giving it a softer mouthfeel and lighter punch.
Also Read: 3 Amazing Vermouth-Based Cocktails You Can Make At Home
Vodka or Gin? Your Martini, Your Rules
🔸 Gin Martini
Herbaceous, complex, and the original base spirit of the martini. London Dry gin gives you that traditional piney punch, while contemporary gins like Zoya Premium Special Batch Gin or Cambridge Truffle Gin offer unique twists with florals or botanicals.
🔸 Vodka Martini
Clean, smooth, and neutral. Vodka martinis are more about subtlety and elegance. If you’re new to martinis or don’t love gin’s botanicals, start here. Award-winning vodkas like Suntory Haku or AMG Frozen Vodka elevate a vodka martini to something truly refined.
Stirred or Shaken? It’s Not Just a Bond Thing
🔹 Stirred
The traditional method. Stirring preserves the silky texture and clarity of the cocktail. It’s smoother and less aerated, keeping the drink cool and elegant.
🔹 Shaken
This method introduces air, resulting in a slightly cloudier drink with more dilution. This allows 007 seven to stay alert while out on a secret mission.
Dirty, Gibson, or Perfect? Martini Variations to Know
🍸 Dirty Martini
Add a splash (or more) of olive brine. Salty, savoury, and incredibly satisfying—especially with premium olives or blue cheese-stuffed ones.
🍸 Gibson Martini
Swap out the olive or twist for a cocktail onion. This subtle change transforms the drink, giving it a slight savoury-sweet crunch.
🍸 Perfect Martini
Equal parts dry and sweet vermouth, creating a beautifully balanced and slightly sweeter martini. Great for those who find classic versions too dry or boozy.
Popular Martini Garnishes
The garnish isn’t just decoration—it changes the aroma and flavour.
- Olive – Classic, briny, and adds a savoury punch.
- Lemon Twist – Fresh, zesty, and brightens up the profile.
- Cocktail Onion – For Gibson lovers. Sweet, crisp, and very retro-chic.
Pro tip: Always express the citrus oils from the lemon twist over the glass before dropping it in. That’s bartender magic right there.
Martini Serving Tips
✔️ Always Use a Chilled Glass – Whether coupe or martini-style, a frosty glass keeps your drink cool and sharp.
✔️ Don’t Overdo the Ice – More ice = slower dilution while stirring or shaking.
✔️ Balance is Key – A great martini isn’t about strength; it’s about harmony between spirit and vermouth.
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