The Martini

Recipe, Versions, and a Little Background

The name conjures images of suave and sophisticated people in equally magnificent settings.

Nobody knows for sure where the Martini was created, but some say it was born in San Francisco, while others point a finger at Italy. Either way, it’s been captivating us and has been a favorite forever.

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

The Martini cocktail has had its ups and downs in popularity. It was the ultimate cool kid drink back in the golden age of Hollywood, but then it got lost in the shuffle for a while. It has made a comeback, and it’s hotter than ever. There’s a Martini for everyone, from the classic purist to the adventurous flavor seeker, and some who make us wonder about life choices. 😉

The Classic Martini is Timeless

The OG Martini is a simple yet elegant combo of gin and dry vermouth, stirred (not shaken!) and served ice-cold.

The key is the gin-to-vermouth ratio, and the debate over this could continue forever. Some like it bone dry, while others prefer a hint of vermouth. A lemon twist is the classic garnish, but olives are more than acceptable. Use onions for garnish, and you have a Gibson.

The Classic Martini Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 ounces gin
  • 1/2 ounce dry vermouth
  • Garnish with a lemon twist

Steps

  • Add the gin and dry vermouth into a mixing glass with ice and stir until very cold.
  • Strain into a chilled martini glass.
  • Garnish with a lemon twist.

The Dirty Martini

Want to add a little edge to your Martini? Try a Dirty Martini. It’s a classic with a twist (literally). Olive brine is the secret ingredient here, and the more brine, the dirtier it gets. Some folks opt for so much brine that you could call it a filthy martini. 

It’s a satisfyingly savory cocktail. Olives are the obvious garnish, and they should be big, juicy ones, preferably stuffed with pimentos.

The Vodka Martini

For those who prefer a slightly milder taste, the Vodka Martini is a great option. It swaps out gin for vodka, creating a smoother and less complex drink. It’s a popular choice, especially for those new to the Martini scene. Olives or a lemon twist can finish it off nicely.

The Dry Martini

If you’re all about the gin or vodka flavor, the Dry Martini is for you. It’s basically a gin or vodka-forward drink with just a whisper of vermouth (or none at all if you’re feeling daring). It’s crisp, clean, and perfect for sipping. A lemon twist is the way to go for this one.

Sugar Lounge Signature Martinis

Chocolate Man-Tini

Ingredients: Ballotin Chocolate Whiskey | Tito’s Vodka | Fresh Cream | Chocolate Drizzle

The Sugar Lounge Chocolate Man-tini

Orbit Martini

Ingredients: Grey Goose Vodka | Kahlua | Orbit Vietnamese Cold Brew Coffee

Sugar Lounge Signature Cocktail - Orbit Martini