Ice – Cold Martini Recipe

Chill the glass

Fill the martini glass with about 1 cup of ice and cold water (or use the 1 cup of ice from ingredients) and set aside to chill while you prepare the drink. Let sit for at least 1–2 minutes.

Measure spirits

Measure 2.5 oz London dry gin and 0.5 oz dry vermouth using a jigger and pour both into the mixing glass (or shaker).

Add ice and stir

Add about 2 cups of fresh ice to the mixing glass. Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture gently and consistently for 30–45 seconds (about 20–30 full spoon turns) until the outside of the mixing glass feels very cold and the liquid is well chilled and slightly diluted.

Prepare garnish

While stirring, use a peeler or small knife to cut a thin lemon twist (about 1/2 inch wide and 2–3 inches long). If using an olive instead, have it ready on a pick.

Discard ice and strain

Dump the ice and water from the chilled martini glass. Using a Hawthorne or julep strainer, strain the chilled martini from the mixing glass into the chilled martini glass in one smooth motion to avoid splashing.

Express lemon oil (optional)

Hold the lemon twist over the cocktail and gently squeeze or give it a quick twist to express the citrus oils across the surface of the drink. Optionally, run the twist around the rim and then drop it into the glass.

Garnish and serve

If using an olive, drop it into the glass on a pick or napkin. Serve immediately while icy cold.

Use a chilled martini glass and cold tools. A mixing glass and bar spoon produce a clearer, silkier martini than shaking; shaking will make the drink colder and slightly more diluted and cloudy. Clean and dry all equipment before use.