Dirty 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 build the drink to chill it.

Prepare garnish

Thread 2–3 green olives onto a cocktail pick or small skewer. If you like a touch of citrus, cut a small lemon twist and set aside.

Combine ingredients

In a mixing glass or shaker, add 6 large ice cubes, 2.5 oz gin or vodka, 0.5 oz dry vermouth, and 0.5 oz olive brine.

Stir (or shake) to chill and dilute

Stir firmly for 20–30 seconds with a bar spoon to properly chill and dilute. If you prefer a slightly more aerated, colder drink, shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds (shaking will produce a slightly cloudier, colder martini).

Prepare glass

If you chilled the glass with ice water, dump the water and dry the glass before straining.

Strain and garnish

Double-strain the mixture into the chilled martini glass using a Hawthorne or julep strainer (and a fine mesh if using shaken ice shards). Garnish with the skewered olives and, if using, express the lemon twist over the drink then drop it in or discard according to preference.

Serve

Serve immediately while very cold. Provide a small napkin or coaster; the cocktail will be served very cold and may sweat.