Classic Dry Martini Recipe

# Classic Dry Martini Recipe

The Dry Martini is a cocktail that epitomizes elegance and sophistication. Steeped in history and favored by icons throughout the decades, this classic drink has stood the test of time. A perfect Dry Martini is much more than just a cocktail; it’s an experience, a ritual, and for many, a cherished tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, mastering the art of crafting a Dry Martini is a worthwhile pursuit. Below is a revered recipe and guide to creating the quintessential Dry Martini.

## Ingredients

To create the classic Dry Martini, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 2 ½ ounces of gin
– ½ ounce of dry vermouth
– Ice (preferably cubed)
– A lemon twist or green olive for garnish

Quality ingredients are crucial for achieving the perfect balance and flavor in your Dry Martini. Opt for a high-quality gin and a dry vermouth that complements its botanicals.

## Equipment

– Mixing glass
– Bar spoon
– Strainer
– Martini glass

## Step-by-Step Guide

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Chill Your Martini Glass

Begin by placing your Martini glass in the freezer to chill. A cold glass will ensure your Martini stays cool and refreshing from the first sip to the last.

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Combine Gin and Vermouth

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the gin and dry vermouth. The traditional ratio for a Dry Martini is 5:1, favoring gin heavily. However, feel free to adjust the vermouth to taste. Remember, the dryer the Martini, the less vermouth you should use.

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Stir, Don’t Shake

Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds. Contrary to the famous James Bond preference, stirring ensures that your Martini remains clear, and the flavors are delicately melded together. Shaking can aerate the mix, introducing tiny air bubbles that can slightly muddy the appearance and alter the texture of the drink.

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Strain and Serve

Strain the mixture into your chilled Martini glass. A fine mesh strainer is preferred to ensure a smooth pour, free of ice chips and any botanical remnants from the gin.

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Add Garnish

Finally, garnish your Dry Martini. The choice between a lemon twist and an olive (or even an onion for a Gibson Martini) is more than just decorative; it subtly influences the overall flavor profile of the drink. A lemon twist tends to bring out the citrus botanicals in the gin, while an olive adds a savory depth.

## Conclusion

Making a perfect Dry Martini is an art form, blending tradition with personal taste. While the recipe is simple, the nuances of method and ingredient choice make each Martini unique. Whether you lean towards a more vermouth-forward variant, or prefer the bone-dry iteration, remember that the heart of the Dry Martini lies in its balance and simplicity. So here’s to the classic Dry Martini – may it continue to grace our bars and homes with its timeless elegance.