Ltd Dirty Recipe

Chill glass

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

Gather tools

Assemble a mixing glass or shaker, a bar spoon, jigger, fine strainer (optional), and a garnish skewer.

Add ice to the mixing glass or shaker until roughly three-quarters full. A heavy, cold mixing glass is preferred for stirring; a shaker is acceptable if you prefer a slightly more aerated, colder drink.

Measure and pour 2.5 oz gin (or vodka) into the mixing glass.

Add 0.5 oz dry vermouth to the mixing glass.

Add 0.75 oz olive brine. For a more intense 'LTD' profile, add 0.25 tsp of olive tapenade — this will add body and umami. If you used tapenade, stir gently to incorporate.

Stir (or shake) the mixture for 20–30 seconds if stirring, or 8–10 seconds if shaking. Stirring creates a smoother, clearer drink; shaking will give a slightly cloudy appearance and colder temperature.

Remove the martini glass from the freezer or discard the ice water and dry the glass. Using a julep or fine strainer, strain the cocktail into the chilled martini glass. If you used tapenade and want to remove tiny solids, double strain through a fine mesh.

Thread 3 pitted large green olives onto a skewer and rest it across the rim of the glass or drop into the drink.

If desired, express a lemon peel over the surface (twist to release oils) and discard or rub the rim lightly before placing it on the glass. The citrus is optional and should be mild so as not to compete with the olive-forward profile.

Serve immediately while very cold.