Martinez
A sophisticated, spirit-forward cocktail often cited as the bridge between the Manhattan and the Martini, offering a rich, botanical profile.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Old Tom gin — London Dry substitutes for a drier profile
- 1.5 oz Sweet vermouth
- 0.25 oz Maraschino liqueur
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters — Orange bitters are a common alternative
Story
You suggested the Martinez to provide a stirred, spirit-forward alternative to the shaken sours we’d been discussing — the historical missing link between the Manhattan and the Martini. We landed on it specifically to show how maraschino functions as an accent in a vermouth-heavy gin drink rather than a primary sweetener.
Method
- Add gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino, and bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir gently for ~30 seconds to achieve proper dilution and temperature.
- Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora or coupe.
- Express the oils of an orange twist over the surface and garnish.
Notes
- Traditionally made with Old Tom gin — its malty sweetness complements the maraschino better than modern dry gins.