The Dry Martini is the epitome of elegant simplicity: London Dry Gin and dry vermouth, stirred, not shaken. No cocktail embodies precision more than this—every detail counts, from the temperature of the gin to the choice of garnish. Those who mix it correctly understand why, for over a century, it has remained the benchmark for dry, robust drinks. Here’s how to make it perfectly—no frills, just the knowledge that takes it from good to great.
Here’s what you need for the Dry Martini
6 cl London Dry Gin
1 cl dry vermouth
1 green olive or 1 lemon twist (for garnish)
Ice cubes (large, crystal clear)
What matters most
The vermouth makes all the difference—but only if it’s fresh. Dry vermouth oxidizes quickly; store the bottle in the fridge and use it within four weeks of opening. When stirring: count the rotations. 20–25 turns are enough to chill the gin to about -2°C. More stirring dilutes the drink, less leaves it too warm. A bar trick: hold the mixing glass briefly under running cold water before adding the ice—this keeps the temperature stable.
Variations
- Dirty Martini — Add 1 cl olive brine and garnish with two olives. The drink becomes saltier and rounds out the gin.
- Vodka Martini — Replace the London Dry Gin with vodka. The drink becomes more neutral, but no less bold—ideal for purists who want to emphasize the vermouth’s flavor.
- Wet Martini — Increase the vermouth to 2 cl. The drink becomes softer and less dry, with more herbal notes.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Dry Martini stirred, not shaken?
Gin is a clear, aromatic spirit—shaking would make it cloudy and incorporate too much air, which would impair the texture and flavor. Stirring chills the drink evenly without diluting or oxidizing it. James Bond aside: a shaken Martini is heresy.
Can I use any gin for a Dry Martini?
Theoretically yes, but London Dry Gin is the first choice. Its bold juniper and citrus notes harmonize perfectly with the vermouth. Other gins—such as New Western or fruit-forward styles—can dominate the flavor and throw the Martini off balance.
How do I know if the vermouth is still good?
Fresh vermouth smells of herbs and citrus, with a slight sweetness. If it’s oxidized, it develops a sharp, almost medicinal aroma. Take a sip: if it tastes bitter or flat, the bottle should be discarded. Always store it in the fridge and use it quickly.
Why is the glass chilled?
A warm glass would immediately reheat the Martini and dissipate its aromas. Chill the glass for 5 minutes in the freezer or rinse it with ice water and dry it. The first sip should be ice-cold—exactly how a Martini should be.
