Perfect Martini

The Perfect Martini is a Gin Martini variant that has equal parts Dry Vermouth and Sweet Vermouth. The word "perfect" doesn't neccessarily refer to perfection, it refers to the measures of both types of Vermouth. You can also try this drink with Vodka, of course, but it's more fun with Gin.

With so many different kinds of Martinis out there, this one is a relatively simple variant that's a good one to start with as you build your menu. Compare it your standard Classic Martini to see what you like best.

Total Time 3

Servings 1 cocktail

Ingredients

60 mL Gin
15 mL Dry Vermouth
15 mL Sweet Vermouth
Garnish with a Lemon Twist

Instructions

Put Gin, Dry Vermouth, and Sweet Vermouth in a mixing glass with plenty of ice. Stir until everything is cold and mixed well.
Strain in a Coupe glass.
Garnish and serve. Enjoy.

Notes

The Perfect Martini isn't the only "perfect" style drink. As mentioned, "perfect" refers to the equal measures of both Dry and Sweet Vermouth. The same thing can be accomplished with a Perfect Manhattan, for example.

For those who like a Dry Martini though, you may find this drink a little on the sweet side. In a way, it's really a completely different drink. While a normal Martini really puts the base spirit forward, the Perfect Martini really smooths things out. It's refreshing, but different.

And Some More About the Perfect Martini

If you’re a Martini drinker, the Perfect Martini is worth adding to your menu, if only to compare the classic to the modified version. You’ll obviously notice a few differences between the two, but it’s nice to compare and see what you like about each one. With the differences (and similarities in mind), we’ll obviously being making plenty of comparisons to the original Gin Martini. The perfect version is such a minor variation after all. But while it’s minor, it makes a big difference! Without the original Martini, we wouldn’t have the Perfect Martini though, so we have to make plenty of comparisons here.

At the end of the day though, the best way to figure out the Perfect Martini the best is to try one for yourself. We know we already mentioned that, but no amount of reading about a cocktail will really get you to understand it. So go ahead and make one! Maybe line it up next to the original Gin Martini and do a side by side tasting.

Does this recipe still work if I make a few at a time?

Yes, this recipe still works. Just increase the amount of ingredients in the mixing glass, stir everything, and you’ll be making multiple cocktails in no time. This way you can make a few cocktails to easily share with friends.

Will making a Perfect Martini for later work?

Yes, if you make a Perfect Martini, it should be fine to keep it in the fridge until it’s ready to be served. Just stir all the ingredients together then remove the ice so your drink doesn’t become overly diluted.

What’s the best time for a Perfect Martini?

Pretty much the same times as you’d be having a regular Martini, but with some differences! We mentioned in our recipe for the original that the Gin Martini is a great way to try new Gins. Since the classic Martini is so close to just being neat Gin, with a little bit of Vermouth to take the edge off, it’s a nice way to play with different Gins and appreciate at their flavours. This is less the case with the Perfect Martini as the extra Vermouth dilutes some of the more subtle flavours of the Gin. You can give it a go, but you’ll have better luck with the classic here.

Instead, try a Perfect Martini as a general change up to the original. We think Martinis are a great general party cocktail. They’re easy to make and they look good. The Perfect Martini is the same, but it’s just a little bit different.

Is the Perfect Martini a strong cocktail?

As cocktails go it’s starting to stray into the slightly strong area, but it’s only a little bit above average. Compared to the standard Gin Martini it’s got a bit more of a kick to it (10 mL more Gin and 20 mL more Vermouth in total). That’s not an extreme amount more alcohol, of course, but it is, of course, more alcohol. The Perfect Martini is also a lot less dry than the original, which may make the drinker drink it a little quicker by mistake. Take that in mind when having one of these.

What’s the best kind of music for a Perfect Martini?

For our regular Gin Martini recipe we mentioned how it’s a nice drink for a cocktail party, but the music there varies so just go with whatever is playing. We’re going to be saying pretty much the same think for the Perfect Martini with a bit of a caveat. Similar to what we said about the Perfect Manhattan, the Perfect Martini is a fair bit smoother than its standard version and therefor calls for smoother music; like the difference between Traditional Jazz and Smooth Jazz.

So, going back to the best time to have a Perfect Martini, perhaps you’re on Gin Martinis all night and the music changes from slightly upbeat background music to something a little more mellow. Then it’s Perfect Martini time!

Take a look at few more cocktail recipes while you’re here

Whether you liked the Perfect Martini or not, you may enjoy taking a look at a few more recipes just to expand your repertoire. We’ve provided links to sections of the site we think you may like.

Top 10 Gin cocktail recipes: we’ve curated a list of the ten Gin cocktail recipes we think are the best. Take a look and tell us if you agree.

Top 15 three ingredient cocktails recipes: we’ve also curated a list of the three ingredients cocktails we like the best. Take a look for yourself.

All Gin cocktail recipes: if have a look at everything for yourself and see if you can determine your own favourites.

All three ingredient cocktail recipes: same with our easy three ingredient cocktails. Take a look at everything we have to offer!