Dirty Martini
cocktailginstrongsour

Dirty Martini

The Dirty Martini is a variation to the original Martini Cocktail by adding olive brine to the mix. It can be made with either vodka or gin.

5 min
medium
martini glass

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 shots gin or vodka
  • 1/2 shot of dry vermouth
  • 1/4 shot olive brine
  • 1-3 olives
Garnish: olives

Instructions

  1. 1

    Add all the ingredients to your mixing glass. 

  2. 2

    Lovingly stir for 25-30 seconds. 

  3. 3

    Strain into a chilled martini glass. 

  4. 4

    Add the garnish.

Pro Tip

For the best Dirty Martini, use high-quality olives and brine. Try experimenting with different types of olives, like garlic-stuffed or jalapeño-stuffed, for a unique twist.

The Story Behind the Dirty Martini

The Dirty Martini emerged as a popular twist on the classic Martini in the mid-20th century, when bartenders began experimenting with olive brine to add a savory kick. Its exact origins are a bit murky, much like the drink itself, but it quickly became a favorite among those who enjoy a bold, briny flavor. The Dirty Martini has since become a staple in cocktail culture, often associated with sophistication and a touch of rebellion.

What Pairs Well

Food Pairings

  • 🍽️
    Stuffed Blue Cheese Olives

    The creamy, tangy blue cheese complements the briny olive flavor in the Dirty Martini perfectly.

  • 🍽️
    Oysters Rockefeller

    The rich, savory oysters pair beautifully with the strong, salty notes of the Dirty Martini.

  • 🍽️
    Charcuterie Board

    A variety of cured meats and cheeses enhance the complex flavors of the cocktail.

Perfect For

  • Bachelorette Weekend in Vegas

    A bold, briny cocktail like the Dirty Martini is perfect for a wild, celebratory weekend.

  • Super Bowl Sunday

    The strong, savory flavors of the Dirty Martini make it a great choice for game day gatherings.

  • Recovering from a Bad Date

    A Dirty Martini offers a comforting, sophisticated escape after a rough night out.

  • Celebrating a Promotion

    Raise a glass of Dirty Martini to toast your success with a touch of class and boldness.

Fun Facts

  • The Dirty Martini was reportedly a favorite of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who enjoyed mixing his own cocktails.

  • Olive brine, the key ingredient in a Dirty Martini, is simply the juice from a jar of olives, adding a salty, savory twist to the classic drink.

  • The Dirty Martini is often seen as a more approachable version of the classic Martini, thanks to its savory, less dry profile.

Make This Drink with Tom or Tina

Watch our bartenders mix it up with fun animations!