Martini Recipe

Chill glass

Place the cocktail (martini) glass in the freezer for several minutes or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink to thoroughly chill the glass.

Measure and combine

In a mixing glass (preferred for a clear, less-aerated martini) or a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 2.5 oz gin and 0.5 oz dry vermouth. If using, add 1 dash orange bitters.

Stir or shake

Stir the mixture with a bar spoon for about 20–30 seconds (roughly 20 full spoon stirs) to properly chill and dilute. If you prefer a shaken martini (more aeration/opaline texture), shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds instead.

Prepare garnish

If using a lemon twist: take the chilled glass, use a peeler or small knife to cut a 1-inch strip of lemon peel, twist over the drink to express oils, then rub the rim and drop it in. If using an olive: spear one green olive on a cocktail pick.

Strain and serve

Discard ice or water from the chilled glass. Using a strainer (if shaken) or directly from the mixing glass, strain the martini into the chilled cocktail glass. Add the prepared garnish and serve immediately.

Notes

Adjust gin-to-vermouth ratio to taste — classic is 5:1 (2.5 oz gin : 0.5 oz vermouth); drier versions use less vermouth. Use quality gin and chilled ingredients for best results.

Ensure all tools are clean and chilled where appropriate. Remove the glass from the freezer or dump the ice water just before straining so the drink remains as cold as possible.