The history of the Dry Martini is as intriguing as the cocktail is iconic. Its roots can be traced back to the late 19th century, and its evolution has been shaped by the changing tastes and trends of the cocktail culture.
- Origin of the Martini: The exact origin of the Martini remains a subject of debate among cocktail historians, with multiple theories vying for prominence. One widely accepted theory attributes the creation of the Martini to the United States in the latter half of the 19th century. Some suggest it was born out of a desire to refine and enhance the flavor of the gin being used at the time.
- The Evolution of the Dry Martini: The Dry Martini, as we know it today, emerged during the Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933). During this period, the quality of bootlegged gin was often dubious, prompting bartenders and drinkers to seek ways to mask its harshness.
- This gave rise to the trend of “dry” cocktails, where the sweetness was minimized or eliminated.The classic Dry Martini evolved as a result, showcasing a drier profile with less vermouth, allowing the botanicals of the gin to take center stage. The cocktail’s popularity soared, and it became the drink of choice for the glamorous and sophisticated set, including Hollywood stars and literary giants.
- Cultural Impact: Over the years, the Dry Martini has become more than just a cocktail; it’s a cultural icon. Immortalized in literature, film, and popular culture, the Martini glass has become a symbol of refinement. From James Bond’s preference for a vodka Martini to its association with the golden age of Hollywood, the Dry Martini has left an indelible mark on the world of cocktails.
Dry Martini Ingredients
Ingredients:
- London Dry Gin: 60ml (2oz)
- Dry Vermouth: 7.5ml (0.25oz)
- Ice Cubes
Dry Martini Recipe
- Chill Your Martini Glass: Either place it in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill.
- Combine Gin and Vermouth: In a mixing glass, pour 60ml of London Dry Gin and 7.5ml of dry vermouth.
- Stir: Add ice to the mixing glass. Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds with a bar spoon to chill without aerating too much.
- Strain: Discard ice from the Martini glass. Strain the stirred gin and vermouth mix into the glass.
- Garnish (Optional): Add a lemon twist or an olive for garnish. If using a lemon twist, squeeze it over the drink to express the oils before placing it in the drink.
The Dry Martini – A Legacy
Despite the martini’s association with a certain fictional British spy, it’s important to remember that it should be stirred, not shaken. Stirring ensures a clear cocktail without ice shards and allows for proper dilution, balancing the ingredients. Aim to stir for at least 20 to 30 seconds before straining it into a martini glass. A twist of lemon peel over the top adds the finishing touch to your Dry Martini—a drink worth savoring to the last drop.
The martini has inspired numerous variations beyond the classic Dry Martini. These include the Vodka Martini, which substitutes gin with vodka, the Reverse Martini, where the gin and vermouth ratios are swapped, and the Perfect Martini, featuring equal parts dry and sweet vermouth. Mastering the Dry Martini lays the foundation for experimenting with its diverse relatives.
