Premium Gin Or Vodka Martini Recipe

Chill the glass

Place a cocktail (martini) glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink. This ensures the martini stays cold longer.

Measure spirits and vermouth

Using a jigger, measure 2.5 oz premium gin or vodka and 0.5 oz dry vermouth. Adjust vermouth quantity to taste if you prefer a drier martini (use 0–0.25 oz) or a wetter martini (0.75–1 oz).

Add ice to mixing vessel

Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with about 1 cup of fresh ice. The goal is plenty of cold surface area to chill and slightly dilute the spirit.

Combine and stir (or shake)

Pour the measured gin or vodka and dry vermouth over the ice. If you are making a classic, smooth martini, stir gently with a bar spoon for 20–30 seconds until the outside of the mixing glass becomes frosty. If you prefer a James Bond–style martini, shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until well chilled and a light frost forms on the shaker.

Prepare garnish

If using a lemon twist: use a peeler or small knife to cut a 1/2-inch-wide strip of lemon peel, avoiding too much pith. Express the oils by holding the peel over the glass and giving it a quick twist, then rub the rim with the peel and drop it into the drink. If using an olive: thread one large green olive onto a cocktail pick and set aside.

Empty and strain

If you chilled the cocktail glass with ice water, dump it now. Using a strainer, pour the mixed martini from the mixing glass or shaker into the chilled cocktail glass, leaving the ice behind to avoid over-dilution.

Garnish and serve

Place the lemon twist in the glass or rest the olive on the rim or drop it into the drink. Serve immediately while icy cold.

Rinse and dry the mixing glass, shaker, bar spoon, jigger, and strainer after use. Store cocktail tools in a dry place.