Martini Recipe

Chill the glass

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

Measure spirits

Pour 2.5 oz gin and 0.5 oz dry vermouth into the mixing glass or shaker.

Add ice

Add 6 ice cubes to the mixing glass so the liquid will chill quickly and dilute slightly.

Stir (or shake) the cocktail

Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture for about 20–30 seconds (roughly 15–20 full spoon turns) until well chilled and slightly diluted. If you prefer a slightly more aerated, colder Martini, shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds instead (note: shaking will produce tiny ice shards and a cloudier appearance).

Optional bitters

If using, add one dash of Angostura bitters into the mixing glass before stirring to add aromatic complexity.

Prepare the glass

Discard ice water from the martini glass (if used) and dry briefly. If you like, rinse the chilled glass with a few drops of dry vermouth and discard the excess for a 'wet' vermouth note.

Strain

Place the strainer over the mixing glass and strain the chilled cocktail into the prepared martini glass.

Garnish with lemon twist

Use a peeler or small knife to cut a 1–2 inch long strip of lemon peel. Hold the peel over the drink and give it a quick twist to release the oils, then rub the rim with the peel and drop it into the glass or discard, according to preference.

Alternative garnish

If you prefer an olive, skewer one cocktail olive and place it in the drink instead of a lemon twist.

Ensure all tools are clean and chilled where appropriate. Use the bar spoon for stirring, the strainer to remove ice, and the peeler/knife to prepare the lemon twist. Chill the glass ahead of time for best presentation and temperature.