House Martini Recipe

Chill the glass

Place the martini glass in the freezer for at least 10 minutes or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink so it is well chilled.

Prepare ingredients

Measure 2.5 oz gin (or vodka) and 0.5 oz dry vermouth. If using orange bitters, have 1 dash ready. Prepare a lemon twist by using a peeler to remove a 1-inch strip of peel, avoiding too much pith. Skewer or have one green olive ready for garnish.

Build and chill

Fill the mixing glass or shaker with 1 cup of ice. Pour in 0.5 oz dry vermouth first, then 2.5 oz gin (or vodka). Add 1 dash orange bitters if using. Using the bar spoon, stir gently for 20–30 seconds (about 20–30 full spoon turns) to properly chill and dilute the spirit without over-aerating. If you prefer your martini very cold and slightly more diluted, stir for up to 40 seconds.

Taste and adjust (optional)

If you prefer a drier martini, reduce vermouth to 0.25 oz; for wetter, increase to 0.75–1 oz. Adjust based on taste before straining.

Strain and garnish

Discard ice/water from the chilled martini glass. Using the strainer, pour the stirred martini into the glass. Express the lemon twist over the surface of the drink by pinching it with the peel-side facing down to release oils, then rub the rim with the twist and drop it in (or discard). Alternatively, garnish with a green olive on a cocktail pick and rest it in the glass.

Use the jigger to measure spirits for accuracy. Use the mixing glass and bar spoon to stir. Use the strainer to remove ice when pouring into the chilled martini glass. Use the peeler to make a clean lemon twist.