Martinez
An improved version of the Manhattan, the Martinez also has elements of a classic Martini and more. In fact, this cocktail likely predates the Martini, we just don't know by how long. Because of this, this cocktail is a must on your menu, if not for history alone.What's more on the history of this cocktail, it's often seen as the inspiration behind many other modern cocktails. It's strange that it's not as dominant a cocktail as many others, and even stranger that more of its history and origins are unknown. But that's the case with so many great, classic cocktails. Tastes change over time, so certain recipes (and recipe variants) fall in and out of fashion. As time has passed, the Martinez has been overtaken by the very cocktails it's inspired.It's still a great cocktail though, so go ahead and make one.
Ingredients
- 45 mL Gin
- 45 mL Sweet Vermouth
- 10 mL Maraschino Liqueur
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Garnish with Orange Twist
Instructions
- Add Gin, Sweet Vermouth, Maraschino Liqueur, and Angostura Bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir until cold.
- Strain into a Coupe glass.
- Garnish and drink
Notes
As with everything, make sure you're using great ingredients, especially for your Gin! This will ensure your Gin shines through the other ingredients, especially the Vermouth which will take the edge of everything.
As mentioned, this cocktail has been around for awhile, likely since the the 1800's. It's thought that the recipe originally came out of out Martinez, California. If this is the case, it's obvious where the drink's name came from If this isn't the case, its name is a bit more of a mystery...
It's pretty clear how this recipe can be turned into a Martini though. Just change the Vermouth and throw out everything else and you have a Martini. Either someone was experimenting or made a mistake!