Sake Martini Recipe

Chill glass

Place a martini or coupe glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes, or fill it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail to ensure it stays very cold.

Prepare optional rim

If using a flavored rim, rub the citrus peel or a bit of water around the glass lip, then dip rim lightly into a plate with yuzu salt or a mixture of sea salt and a pinch of wasabi. Set glass aside.

Mix

In a mixing glass or cocktail shaker filled with ice (about 1 cup), pour 2 oz gin (or vodka), 1 oz chilled dry sake, and 0.25 oz dry vermouth. Stir gently with a bar spoon for 20–30 seconds (or shake briskly for a slightly more aerated, colder drink). Stirring yields a clearer martini; shaking yields a colder, slightly cloudy finish.

Strain and garnish

Discard ice or water from the chilled glass. Double-strain the mixed cocktail into the chilled glass using a julep or fine strainer to remove any small ice shards. Express the lemon twist over the drink by holding it skin-side down and giving it a quick twist to release oils, then rub the rim with the peel and drop it into the cocktail. Alternatively, use a thin cucumber ribbon as garnish.

Serve

Serve immediately while cold. Note optional rim will add a savory, bright accent—adjust wasabi/salt amount to taste before serving.