A martini is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations. The key to a great martini is in the preparation, and one of the most important elements is ensuring that it is nice and dry.
But what exactly does a dry martini mean?
Martini is a cocktail made with gin and vermouth. The amount of vermouth in your Martini determines its dryness. Generally, the drink is composed of gin and dry vermouth in a ratio of 2:1. However, a dry Martini is made with little to no vermouth, which helps to keep the Martini from being too sweet.
Let’s dive in and explore what makes a Martini dry, the different types of Martini, and what can be the perfect garnish for your dry Martini.
What Makes a Martini Dry?
In the cocktail world, the “dryness” of a drink refers to the amount of sugar present—the dryer the drink, the less sugar it contains. A dry Martini contains very little vermouth, which means it has less sugar than a traditional Martini.
Extra dry Martinis take this one step further and use even less vermouth, or sometimes none at all. This makes for a very dry drink that is crisp and refreshing.
The ice-cold dryness of a Martini makes it so popular, and its versatility means that everyone can enjoy it. Whether you like your Martini dry or extra dry, the important thing is to enjoy it!
The Different Types of Martinis
There are many different types of Martinis, but they all have one thing in common: they’re strong, sophisticated, and perfect for a night out. Though Martini is typically made with gin, many different types can be made using a variety of spirits.
For example, a vodka Martini is a popular variation that uses, you guessed it, vodka instead of gin. For a sweeter version, try a chocolate Martini made with chocolate liqueur and cream.
The classic Martini is made with gin and vermouth and garnished with an olive or a twist of lemon. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for a dirty Martini made with olive brine-infused gin. For something truly unique, try a bacon martini made with bacon-infused vodka.
We can summarize these and many other Martini types as follows:
- Mint Martini
- Pomegranate Martini
- Bikini Martini
- Vodka Martini
- Gin Martini
- Knickerbocker Martini Mix
- Breakfast Martini
- Lemon Splash Martini
- Spicy Martini
- Pyramid Martini Shake
- Classic Martini
So whether you like your Martinis shaken or stirred, there’s sure to be a recipe out there that’s perfect for you.
How To Make a Dry Martini?
I’ve got the perfect recipe for those who like their Martini dry or extra dry.
Ingredients
- 75 ml dry gin
- 15 ml dry vermouth
- 1 dash of orange bitters (optional)
- 3 green olives
- Ice cubes as needed
Steps
- Put a few ice cubes in a cocktail shaker, depending on your wish.
- Add the recommended amount of gin and vermouth to the cocktail shaker.
- To get a smoother drink, shake it well for about 20-30 seconds.
- Finally, strain the drink into your chilled Martini glass.
- Garnish with olives (and a twist of lemon, if desired).
- And that’s it! This simple recipe can be enjoyed whenever you crave a delicious, dry Martini.
The Perfect Garnish for a Dry Martini
A dry Martini cocktail is perfect for any occasion. The key to a great Martini is in the garnish. While many prefer to garnish their Martini with a lemon twist, I believe an olive is a perfect addition to this already stellar drink.
The brine from the olive helps to cut through the dry vermouth, and the fruitiness of the olive pairs perfectly with the gin. In addition, olives are a traditional garnish for Martinis, making them the perfect choice for those looking to create a classic cocktail.
So, if you’re looking for a simple way to dress up your Martini or seeking a traditional garnish, olive is a perfect choice.
Dry Martini vs. Wet Martini
Concerning Martinis, there are two main schools of thought: dry or wet. A dry Martini is made with gin and dry vermouth, while a wet Martini is made with gin and wet (sweet) vermouth. So, what’s the difference?
Dry vermouth is made from white wine that has been aromatized with botanicals. It is very dry, with little sweetness. On the other hand, wet vermouth is made from red wine and is sweeter and fuller-bodied. This sweetness can help round out the gin in a wet Martini, making it more smooth and approachable.
So, which should you choose? It really depends on your preferences. If you like your Martini on the sweeter side, go for a wet martini. If you prefer a drier drink, stick with a dry Martini.
Or, if you can’t decide, ask your bartender to make you a 50/50 Martini – half dry, half wet.
Summary
There you have it! Everything you need to know about dry Martinis. If you like your drink shaken or stirred with olives or a lemon twist, there’s a recipe out there that’s perfect for you.
Ordering a Martini at a bar? Go ahead and enjoy this classic cocktail, knowing you’re getting the perfect ratio of gin to vermouth. Cheers!
