Vodka Martini

Instructions

1. Chill your Martini glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice water.

2. Fill the shaker with ice cubes.

3. Pour the vodka and dry vermouth (Martini Bianco) into the shaker.

4. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well-chilled (or stir gently if preferred).

5. Discard the ice water from the chilled Martini glass (if used).

6. Strain the mixture from the shaker into the chilled Martini glass.

7. Garnish with a green olive.

Trivia

• Shaken or Stirred: How Should a Vodka Martini Be Made?

  The eternal debate! Traditionally, spirit-only cocktails like Martinis are stirred to maintain clarity and a silky texture. Shaking introduces air bubbles and can make the drink cloudy, but it also chills it faster and slightly dilutes it, which some prefer. James Bond famously ordered his 'shaken, not stirred,' popularizing this method. Ultimately, it's a matter of personal preference.

• What's the Difference Between a Vodka Martini and a Gin Martini?

  The primary difference is the base spirit. A Vodka Martini uses vodka, resulting in a cleaner, smoother, and more neutral profile, allowing the vermouth and garnish to shine. A Gin Martini uses gin, which brings complex botanical notes (like juniper) to the forefront, offering a more aromatic and flavorful experience.

• What Garnish is Best for a Vodka Martini?

  The classic garnishes are a green olive (often Spanish Manzanilla) or a lemon twist. An olive adds a savory, briny note that complements the vermouth, while a lemon twist provides a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor. Some variations include cocktail onions (making it a Gibson) or even blue-cheese-stuffed olives for a bolder taste.

• How 'Dry' Should a Vodka Martini Be?

  'Dry' refers to the amount of dry vermouth used. A standard ratio is often 6 parts vodka to 1 part vermouth. A 'Dry Martini' uses less vermouth, perhaps a 10:1 ratio or just a rinse of the glass. An 'Extra Dry Martini' might have only a whisper of vermouth or none at all (essentially chilled vodka). A 'Wet Martini' uses more vermouth, like a 3:1 ratio.

• Can I Use Different Types of Vermouth in a Vodka Martini?

  While Dry Vermouth is traditional for its crispness, you can experiment. Sweet Vermouth (like Martini Rosso) will create a sweeter, richer cocktail (sometimes called a Vodkatini Rosso). Bianco/Blanc vermouth offers a slightly sweeter, more floral profile than dry vermouth. Using different vermouths significantly changes the drink's character.

• What Food Pairs Well with a Vodka Martini?

  The clean, crisp nature of a Vodka Martini makes it a great aperitif. It pairs well with light appetizers, seafood (like oysters, shrimp cocktail, or sushi), salty snacks (like nuts or olives), and classic canapés. Its neutrality doesn't overpower delicate flavors, making it a versatile pre-dinner drink.