In the first post of our “Nothing Like a Classic!” series, we serve up the classic recipe for a Martini. In the depths of winter, nothing hits the spot like gin and dry vermouth to warm the soul when it’s cold outside.

While there are countless iterations of this cocktail, we are sticking with the classic…

Martini

(Recipe shown is for a classic 50/50 dry martini)

Glassware:  Cocktail Glass

Ingredients:

1.5 oz.  Citadelle Gin

1.5 oz.  Carpano Dry Vermouth

1 Dash of Orange Bitters

Garnish:  Lemon Twist

Directions:  Combine ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir to a 40 count or until the glass is properly chilled. Strain, garnish, serve, and enjoy!

The conversation starts with the phrase “I would love a Martini.” From there, it evolves to how the cocktail will take life. Gin or vodka. While gin is believed to be the originator, there is no doubting the popularity of Vodka. Vermouth. And the amount desired must be determined. Shaken or stirred. No this isn’t just a James Bond thing. Shaking provides a quick chill and introduces more water faster, adding for a more approachable bouquet. Stirring provides texture, thick and silky like taking a spirit and chilling it overnight. Glassware. Up (in a cocktail glass) or on the rocks (in a rocks glass over ice). This determines how the drink will age with every sip. Garnish. And this is truly a game changer. The zest of fresh oil that a twist provides vs the slaty briny flavors of an olive will either make you love this cocktail or detest it, depending on your own personal flavors. Once all the questions are answered, the martini truly is one of the easiest drinks to mix.

Find this recipe and 3 other classic drinks in the Winter Tech Edition of John Eric Magazine