Classic Martinez Cocktail: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces of Old Tom gin
  • 1 ounce of sweet vermouth
  • A quarter ounce of maraschino liqueur
  • 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
  • 1 twist of lemon peel for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Pour the Old Tom gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and Angostura bitters into a mixing glass filled with ice.
  2. Stir well for about 20 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.
  3. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.
  4. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel, ensuring to twist it over the glass to release its oils.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy your Martinez cocktail.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Glass - A glass container used for mixing and chilling the cocktail ingredients.
  • Bar Spoon - A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing the ingredients in the mixing glass.
  • Strainer - A tool used to strain the cocktail mixture into the serving glass, keeping ice and any solid ingredients out.
  • Coupe Glass - A type of glassware with a shallow, broad bowl, perfect for serving classic cocktails like the Martinez.
  • Twist Peeler - A tool used to peel a twist of lemon peel for garnishing the cocktail.

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of gin such as London Dry or Plymouth gin for a variation in flavor.
  • Experiment with different vermouths like dry vermouth or bianco vermouth to alter the taste profile.
  • Try different liqueurs in place of maraschino, such as orange liqueur or cherry liqueur, to add a unique twist.
  • Add a dash of orange bitters in addition to or in place of Angostura bitters for a different aromatic note.
  • Consider adding a few drops of absinthe to give the cocktail a subtle herbal touch.
  • Adjust the proportions of the ingredients to suit personal preference. For a drier cocktail, reduce the amount of sweet vermouth, or for a sweeter drink, increase the maraschino liqueur.
  • Experiment with different garnishes like a cherry or a sprig of fresh herbs.

Recipe overview

The Martinez is a classic cocktail that is considered by many to be the precursor to the modern Martini. It's a delightful blend of Old Tom gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and Angostura bitters, garnished with a twist of lemon peel. This cocktail is revered for its balanced sweetness, its subtle hints of cherry from the maraschino liqueur, and the complex botanicals from the gin. Stirred to perfection and strained into a chilled coupe glass, the Martinez is a sophisticated cocktail experience that you can easily create at home. Enjoy the process and savor the exquisite result that this recipe offers.

Common questions

  1. What type of gin should I use for a Martinez cocktail?
    You should use Old Tom gin for this recipe.
  2. Can I use dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth?
    No, the recipe specifically calls for sweet vermouth to achieve the desired flavor profile.
  3. What is maraschino liqueur?
    Maraschino liqueur is a clear, cherry-flavored liqueur that adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the Martinez cocktail.
  4. What does "2 dashes" of Angostura bitters mean?
    "2 dashes" is a standard measurement for bitters. It usually refers to a quick shake or two from the bottle, adding a small amount of the bitters to the cocktail.
  5. Do I need a special glass for serving a Martinez?
    Traditionally, a Martinez cocktail is served in a coupe glass. However, you can also use a martini glass as an alternative.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing glass - A large glass container used for mixing cocktails with ice.
  • Strainer - A tool used to strain the cocktail mixture when pouring it into a glass, preventing ice and other solids from entering the drink.
  • Coupe glass - A stemmed glass with a wide, shallow bowl used for serving classic cocktails like the Martinez.
  • Bar spoon - A long-handled spoon used for stirring cocktails in a mixing glass.
  • Citrus peeler - A tool used to create a twist of lemon peel for garnishing the Martinez cocktail.

Origin stories

Despite its under-the-radar status today, the Martinez is a cocktail with a history as heady as its taste. It is widely considered one of the forerunners of the modern Martini, and its creation dates back to mid-19th century America. The first written record of the Martinez appeared in O.H. Byron's 1862 book "The Modern Bartender's Guide", though it was likely enjoyed in bars and saloons before this. The cocktail gets its name from the California town of Martinez, where, according to local lore, a miner struck gold during the California Gold Rush and walked into a bar to celebrate. The bartender, lacking champagne, concocted a cocktail using what he had on hand; the results were so popular that the drink rapidly spread. Despite its somewhat foggy origins, one thing is clear: the Martinez is a timeless classic that deserves a spot in any cocktail enthusiast's repertoire.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.