Martini: Just Alcohol in Martini Glasses?

The evolution of the martini has seen many phases that make it quite a complicated cocktail to qualify. Originally, the drink originated in the 1800s from a cocktail called the Martinez, which consisted of gin, sweet vermouth, orange curacao, and orange bitters. It usually contained more vermouth than gin.

The early 1900s saw the beginnings of what modern day traditional martinis are made of. The sweet vermouth was substituted for dry vermouth, and more gin was added than the vermouth. The bitters were also still added.

In the 40s and 50s, the ingredients became more varied, because Smirnoff campaigned to replace the gin with vodka. Generally only gin or vodka and dry vermouth (with no added bitters) made its way into the cocktail shakers of the day.

Modern day bars have seen the rise of the popular "martini menu". Usually, the only consistent factor throughout these selections is that the drinks are served in martini glasses. But most bartenders consider a traditional martini to be comprised of gin and dry vermouth.

Any bartender will tell you that to make a proper straight up martini, cocktail shakers are key. After the ingredients are poured over ice into the shaker, the actual shaking of the mixed drink is what gives it those delicious tiny ice chips. Shaking the cocktail 25-50 times vigorously is the best way to achieve this effect before straining the alcohol into the martini glasses. And then, your well made martini is sure to impress any guest.