Gin Martini

When it comes to cocktails, few are as timeless and sophisticated as the Gin Martini. This classic drink, combining the smoothness of gin with the subtle herbal undertones of dry vermouth, is a go-to for both happy hours and dinner parties.

about this gin martini

This easy-to-make and undeniably elegant gin martini is the ultimate introduction to the world of martinis. You do not need to be a seasoned mixologist to bring out the best in your chosen gin, as it allows you to tweak the vermouth ratio to your liking. 

This gin martini checks all the boxes for being both approachable and versatile. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a reliable option for last-minute occasions or a well-planned evening. The beauty of this recipe lies in how customizable it is. With just a few adjustments, you can make it as dry, wet, or dirty as your taste buds prefer.  

And the best part? You don’t need an extensive home bar setup to nail this recipe. With a high-quality gin, some dry vermouth, and a handful of basic tools, you’ll be enjoying your martini in no time.

do I shake or stir this martini?

This is the classic debate! Traditionally, a gin martini is stirred, not shaken. Stirring keeps the drink crystal clear and silky, which purists swear by. Shaking, on the other hand, slightly dilutes the drink more and creates a cloudy finish, but it also gets things icy cold and adds a bit more aeration (personally I prefer it shaken!).

The truth? It comes down to personal preference. If you like it bone-chillingly cold and don’t mind a bit of cloudiness, shake away. If you want that sleek, textbook martini elegance, stick with a gentle stir.

ingredients

Gin. The star of the show. Go for a gin that you’d enjoy sipping on its own. A London Dry gin like Tanqueray or Beefeater gives you that crisp, juniper-forward flavor that defines a classic martini. Want something a little more botanical and nuanced? Try Bombay Sapphire or The Botanist for a softer, more floral take.

Dry vermouth. This brings herbal and citrusy notes that balance out the gin’s strength. Dolin Dry is a standard all-purpose option with delicate flavor. For something a little bolder, Noilly Prat offers a slightly richer, more robust profile that stands up well to a strong gin. 

this recipe’s must-haves 

To craft the perfect martini, a few essential tools are non-negotiable. First, a jigger is key for precise measurements, ensuring the perfect balance of gin and vermouth. Accuracy here is what separates a good martini from a great one.  

Next, a cocktail shaker is essential to properly chill and slightly dilute your martini for that smooth, crisp sip. Pair this with a cocktail strainer to seamlessly pour your drink into a chilled glass while leaving the ice behind. If you do not have a cocktail shaker, you can just use a tall mixing glass.

Finally, don’t forget the martini glasses. Serving your drink in a chilled, polished glass elevates the entire experience, adding a touch of sophistication. Together, these tools ensure every martini is a masterpiece.

here’s how to make this gin martini

Chill the glass

Fill a martini glass with ice cubes and cold water. Set it aside while you prepare the drink to ensure it’s perfectly chilled.  

Shake or stir the ingredients

Add your chosen gin and dry vermouth to a cocktail shaker filled with ice if you plan to shake it. Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.  

If you plan to stir the martini, combine ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir gently.

Prepare the glass

Discard the ice water from the martini glass.  

Strain and serve

Using a strainer, pour the chilled cocktail mixture into the prepared chilled martini glass.  

Add a garnish

Top it off with a lemon peel or twist for a bright citrus note or a cocktail olive for a savory flavor touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!  

tips and tricks 

For the best gin martini, start by chilling your ingredients and glassware ahead of time. When it’s time to shake, give it some energy to ensure the drink is perfectly chilled and slightly diluted, balancing the flavors just right. Remember, the simplest recipes rely on the quality of their ingredients, so invest in a high-quality gin and vermouth.

Your garnish can completely change the character of your martini, so choose wisely. A lemon twist adds a bright, citrusy note, while an olive brings a savory, briny kick. Try both styles to discover your personal favorite.

If you opt for olives, use them sparingly. Their flavor will infuse into a dirty gin martini as it sits, so overdoing it can overpower the drink. A well-balanced martini is all about finding the perfect harmony of flavors.

variations

Dry Gin Martini. For more of a dry profile, use a small amount of dry vermouth to highlight the gin’s flavor. This version is perfect for those who love the strong botanical profile of gin to shine through. Garnish with a lemon twist or an olive for added aromatics. This is the classic recipe that we use in the recipe card below.

Bone Dry Martini. Skip the vermouth entirely or simply rinse the glass with a tiny amount before discarding it. This is the ultimate choice for purists who want their martini to be all about the gin, undiluted and bold. A classic lemon twist garnish works well here.

50-50 Martini (Wet Martini). Combine equal parts gin and vermouth for a smoother, more herbal profile. This option balances the gin’s botanicals with the vermouth’s sweetness, creating a complex and flavorful drink. Garnish with an orange or lemon twist for a citrusy touch.

Dirty Martini. Add a splash of olive brine for a salty, savory kick. For savory cocktail lovers, the dirty martini delivers. Salty, briny, and just a little indulgent. Bonus points if you garnish with blue cheese-stuffed olives.

More martini recipes: Cucumber Martini I Limoncello Martini I Espresso Martini I Fresh Apple Martini

what types of gin cocktails are there?

There are endless possibilities when it comes to gin cocktails! Some popular options include the classic Gin and Tonic, Negroni, Tom Collins, and Martini. Other creative variations include incorporating fruit juices or herbs for a refreshing twist.

are there alternatives for gin in cocktails? 

Yes, there are several alternatives for gin in cocktails. Vodka can often be substituted for gin in drinks like the Vodka Martini or Gimlet. Additionally, you can try using other spirits such as tequila or rum to create unique and flavorful cocktails.

do I need to stir my gin martini? 

Yes, traditionally martinis are stirred instead of shaken. This helps to maintain the clarity and texture of the drink. However, some people prefer the slightly different taste and texture that shaking can provide. It’s a matter of personal preference, so feel free to experiment and see which method you prefer! A good rule of thumb to go by is if your martini is just gin and vermouth, stir it. If your martini has more ingredients in it, shake it.

Need some inspiration for your next party? Check out my booze recipes page! 

what to serve with this gin martini

Salty Snacks. Keep it simple with Marcona almonds, salted nuts, or kettle chips. For something a bit more elevated, try these Prosciutto Cheese Twists or Crispy Prosciutto.  

Cheese Boards. Aged gouda, Manchego, or any firm cheese works beautifully. Check out this Easy Charcuterie Board or Italian Charcuterie Board for inspiration.  

Savory Appetizers. Savory crab cakes, deviled eggs, or shrimp cocktails fan favorites are classic pairings. You could try our favorite Pan-Seared Scallops served with an indulgent bacon cream sauce.  

Dinner Pairings. Few combos are as iconic as a martini with steak. Pair it with this Grilled New York Strip Steak or Perfect Ribeye Steak.  

more of our favorite gin

Now that you have the essentials down, it’s time to get creative. Whether you’re mixing up a dry martini for a classic sip or experimenting with a dirty version, this recipe is the ideal starting point. 

For something refreshing, try the Blackberry Gin Fizz, which combines the bold flavor of blackberries with the crispness of gin to create a perfectly balanced fizz for any occasion. 

If you’re in the mood for something sweet and fruity, the Strawberry Gin Smash Cocktail blends fresh strawberries with gin for a vibrant and easy-to-make drink. 

Or, go timeless with the Gin Sling, a smooth and versatile cocktail that pairs the rich botanical notes of gin with a hint of citrus for a sophisticated sip.

Finally, if you make this gin martini recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

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