French Martini

The French Martini is a sophisticated yet playful cocktail that perfectly balances tart, sweet, and creamy flavors. With its alluring pink hue and fresh, fruity profile, it's a modern classic that adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. The vibrant combination of vodka, raspberry liqueur, and pineapple juice creates a uniquely smooth, silky sip with just the right amount of zing.

4 minutesEasy1 serving
French Martini
Featured
Ingredients
1 serving
  • Vodka
    60 ml (2 oz)
    Choose a good-quality vodka for a smoother taste.
  • Chambord (raspberry liqueur)
    15 ml (0.5 oz)
    Alternatively, use another high-quality raspberry liqueur.
  • Pineapple juice
    45 ml (1.5 oz)
    Fresh pineapple juice is best for flavor and froth.
  • Ice
    1 cup
    For shaking; use more if needed.
Tools Needed
  • Cocktail shaker
  • Hawthorne strainer
  • Jigger
  • Fine mesh strainer (optional)
  • Martini glass
Instructions
  1. Chill your martini glass by filling it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail.

  2. Add vodka, Chambord, and pineapple juice to a cocktail shaker.

  3. Fill the shaker with ice, cover, and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. This creates a frothy, silky texture from the pineapple juice.

  4. Discard the ice from your martini glass and strain the mixture into the glass using a Hawthorne strainer. For extra smoothness, double strain through a fine mesh strainer.

  5. Garnish and serve immediately.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail
  • Vibrant, fresh, and fruity flavor profile.
  • Stunning pink color that looks great in the glass.
  • Smooth, creamy texture thanks to pineapple juice.
  • Easy to make with just three main ingredients.
  • Impresses guests with its elegance and sophistication.
History & Origin

The French Martini may sound like a vintage Parisian favorite, but its origins are actually quite recent. Created in the 1980s by bartender Keith McNally at New York City’s Balthazar, the French Martini was born during the 'cocktail renaissance' that saw bartenders exploring new flavor combinations. The 'French' in its name refers to the use of Chambord, a luxurious black raspberry liqueur from France. Quickly embraced by the cosmopolitan crowd, the French Martini became a signature drink of the era, embodying both indulgence and modernity.

Garnish

A fresh raspberry or a twist of lemon peel on the rim. The garnish adds a pop of color and a subtle aroma that complements the drink’s fruity notes.

Nutrition Info

Approx. 165 calories per serving. Contains about 18g carbohydrates (mainly from pineapple juice and Chambord), 0g fat, and 0g protein. Drink responsibly!

Frequently Asked Questions
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