Martinez

The Martinez is a timeless classic—an elegant, aromatic cocktail that bridges the gap between the gin martini and the Manhattan. With its rich, slightly sweet profile and fragrant botanical notes, the Martinez is perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated sipper with a touch of history in every glass.

5 minutesMedium1 serving
Martinez
Featured
Ingredients
1 serving
  • Old Tom gin
    45 ml (1.5 oz)
    You can use London Dry gin for a drier profile, but Old Tom is traditional.
  • Sweet vermouth
    45 ml (1.5 oz)
    Choose a high-quality sweet vermouth for best results.
  • Maraschino liqueur
    10 ml (0.25 oz)
    Luxardo is the classic choice.
  • Orange bitters
    2 drops
    Angostura orange bitters recommended.
  • Ice
    1 cup
    For chilling and mixing.
Tools Needed
  • Mixing glass
  • Bar spoon
  • Jigger
  • Strainer
  • Chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass
  • Peeler or sharp knife (for garnish)
Instructions
  1. Chill your glass by filling it with ice water and setting it aside.

  2. Add the Old Tom gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and orange bitters to a mixing glass.

  3. Fill the mixing glass with fresh ice and stir briskly for 20-30 seconds until well chilled.

  4. Discard the ice water from your serving glass.

  5. Strain the cocktail into the chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.

  6. Express the oils from a lemon twist over the surface, then drop the twist in as garnish.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail
  • A unique balance of sweet and botanical flavors.
  • Rich history that sparks great conversation.
  • Ideal for gin and vermouth lovers alike.
  • A beautiful aroma from the maraschino liqueur and orange bitters.
  • Versatile enough for both classic and modern cocktail enthusiasts.
History & Origin

Often regarded as the precursor to the modern martini, the Martinez dates back to the mid-to-late 1800s. Its exact origins are the subject of spirited debate: some say it was first mixed at the Occidental Hotel in San Francisco as a special for a traveler bound for Martinez, California. Others believe legendary bartender Jerry Thomas first penned the recipe. Regardless of its birthplace, the Martinez stands as a testament to the creativity of early bartenders and remains a favorite among cocktail aficionados seeking a taste of cocktail history.

Garnish

A lemon twist—expressed over the drink to release fragrant citrus oils, enhancing the Martinez’s aroma and balancing its sweetness.

Nutrition Info

Approximately 180 calories per serving. Contains alcohol, sugars from vermouth and maraschino liqueur, and negligible fat or protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

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