Martinez

Instructions

1. Chill your Coupe glass by filling it with ice or placing it in the freezer.

2. Add Gin, Martini Rosso (Sweet Vermouth), Maraschino Liqueur, and Angostura Bitters to a mixing glass (or the metal part of a shaker).

3. Fill the mixing glass with fresh ice cubes.

4. Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 20-30 seconds, ensuring the mixture is well-chilled but not overly diluted.

5. Discard the ice from your chilled Coupe glass.

6. Using a strainer, pour the stirred mixture into the chilled Coupe glass.

7. Take the orange peel, twist it over the drink to express its essential oils, and then drop it into the glass as garnish.

Trivia

• What is a Martinez cocktail?

  The Martinez is a classic cocktail considered by many historians to be the direct precursor to the Martini. It typically consists of gin (often Old Tom style historically, but London Dry is common now), sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and bitters, garnished with a lemon or orange twist.

• What does a Martinez taste like?

  A Martinez offers a complex flavour profile. It's less dry than a Martini, with noticeable sweetness and fruity notes from the sweet vermouth and maraschino liqueur, balanced by the herbal botanicals of the gin and the aromatic spice of the bitters. It's spirit-forward yet smooth and inviting.

• What is the difference between a Martini and a Martinez?

  The main difference lies in the vermouth and the addition of maraschino liqueur. A classic Martini uses dry vermouth and typically omits maraschino liqueur, resulting in a much drier taste. The Martinez uses sweet vermouth and includes maraschino, giving it a sweeter, richer, and more complex character.

• Should a Martinez be shaken or stirred?

  Like most spirit-only cocktails (containing no juice, egg, or cream), a Martinez should be stirred with ice, not shaken. Stirring chills the drink effectively while minimising dilution and avoiding unwanted aeration, preserving its smooth texture and clarity, which is characteristic of this classic.

• What gin is best for a Martinez?

  Traditionally, Old Tom gin, which is slightly sweeter than London Dry, was used, contributing to its smoother profile. However, a quality London Dry gin also works beautifully, offering a crisper botanical edge. The choice depends on personal preference – Old Tom yields a rounder, historically accurate version, while London Dry provides a sharper profile.

• Can I use different bitters in a Martinez?

  Yes, while Angostura bitters are commonly used and provide a spicy depth, Orange Bitters are often considered more traditional for a Martinez. Orange bitters add a bright citrus note that complements the other ingredients well. Experimenting with different aromatic or orange bitters can subtly change the cocktail's final profile.