Martinez Cocktail Recipe
It’s likely that the Martinez cocktail evolved from the Manhattan and is the precursor to the dry martini cocktail. The main difference being that the Martinez is made with sweet vermouth and the martini is made with dry vermouth.
Ingredients
- •2 shots gin
- •1 shot sweet vermouth
- •1/4 shot maraschino liqueur
- •2 dashes angostura bitters
- •1 lemon twist
Instructions
- 1
Add all the ingredients to your shaker.
- 2
Shake hard for 10-15 seconds.
- 3
Fine strain into a chilled martini glass.
- 4
Add the garnish.
Pro Tip
“For a smoother Martinez, try stirring instead of shaking to maintain the silky texture and prevent over-dilution. Use a high-quality gin and fresh lemon twist for the best flavor.”
The Story Behind the Martinez Cocktail Recipe
The Martinez cocktail is often considered the missing link between the Manhattan and the Martini. It is believed to have originated in the mid-1800s in California, possibly in the town of Martinez itself, or perhaps in San Francisco. This cocktail's sweet and strong profile made it a favorite among those looking for a sophisticated yet approachable drink.
What Pairs Well
Food Pairings
- 🍽️charcuterie board
The rich flavors of cured meats and cheeses complement the sweet and strong notes of the Martinez.
- 🍽️dark chocolate truffles
The bittersweet taste of dark chocolate enhances the fruity and sweet profile of the cocktail.
- 🍽️grilled salmon
The savory and slightly smoky flavor of grilled salmon pairs beautifully with the Martinez's complex taste.
Perfect For
- bachelorette weekend in Vegas
The Martinez's sophisticated yet fun profile makes it perfect for a celebratory weekend with friends.
- Super Bowl Sunday
Its strong and sweet flavor is a great match for the excitement and energy of the big game.
- recovering from a bad date
The comforting sweetness and strength of the Martinez can help turn a bad night around.
- celebrating a promotion
Raise a glass of this classic cocktail to toast your success and new beginnings.
Fun Facts
- ✨
The Martinez is often considered the precursor to the modern Martini, offering a sweeter and more complex flavor profile.
- ✨
Some cocktail historians believe the Martinez was created by a bartender named Julio Richelieu in the 1860s.
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The use of maraschino liqueur in the Martinez adds a unique cherry-like sweetness that sets it apart from other gin-based cocktails.
Watch our bartenders mix it up with fun animations!