The Fitty Firty is no Martini – it’s sharper, more direct, a drink for purists who want to drink Gin and Vermouth in a 6:1 ratio. No frills, no fruit, just the clear line of two spirits that sharpen each other. The olive isn’t a decorative element but the only flavour carrier alongside Gin and Wermut. If you add too much Vermouth here, you lose the dominance of the Gin. If you add too little, you risk a boring Gin served neat.
And this is what you need for the Fitty Firty
6 cl London Dry Gin
1 cl dry Vermouth (Vermouth Dry)
1 pitted green olive (for garnish)
This is what matters
The trick lies in stirring: not too fast, not too long. 20–25 seconds are enough to bring the temperature to about -2 °C without too much water from the ice seeping into the drink. If you don’t have a thermometer, test with your finger on the glass – it should be so cold that it almost hurts. Only add the olive shortly before serving, otherwise it will absorb too much aroma from the drink and become mushy. If you like to experiment, try olives with filling: almonds or garlic give the drink an unexpected depth.
Variations
- Dirty Fitty — Add 1 cl olive brine from the jar of the garnish olives to the drink. Stir as in the original, but omit the olive – the brine takes over its job. Tastes saltier, earthier and pairs well with Gin with spicy notes (e.g. with juniper, angelica root or cardamom).
- Fitty Firty with a Twist — Instead of the olive, squeeze a piece of lemon peel over the glass and add it as garnish. The essential oil rounds off the bitterness of the Vermouth and makes the drink more approachable. Only use the peel, not the flesh – otherwise the drink will taste sour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different Gin instead of London Dry Gin?
Yes, but the character of the drink changes. A floral Gin (e.g. with lavender or violet) makes the Fitty Firty softer, a spicy Gin (with pepper or ginger) makes it sharper. London Dry Gin is the classic choice because it has a clear juniper note that pairs well with the Vermouth. Give it a try – but stick to the 6:1 rule.
Why isn’t the drink shaken?
Shaking would add too much air to the drink and make the texture cloudy. Gin and Vermouth are clear spirits – they should remain clear. In addition, shaking would chop the ice too finely and dilute the drink. Stirring keeps it silky and concentrated.
Can I leave out the Vermouth?
Technically yes, but then you no longer have a Fitty Firty but a Gin served neat. The Vermouth isn’t an accessory but an essential component. It softens the sharpness of the Gin and gives the drink depth. If you want it even drier, reduce the Vermouth to 0.5 cl – but not less.
