Discover the Martinez Cocktail: A Timeless Classic
Updated September 5, 2023
While the Martini often steals the spotlight, the Martinez cocktail deserves its moment of fame. This delightful drink is believed to be a precursor to the modern martini, yet it offers a distinctly different flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
The foundation of a Martinez consists of equal parts Old Tom gin and sweet vermouth, setting it apart from its more famous counterpart. To elevate this classic concoction, add a teaspoon of maraschino liqueur along with either Angostura or orange bitters for an extra layer of complexity.
For an authentic experience, sourcing Old Tom gin is essential. I highly recommend Ransom Old Tom from Oregon; its malted barley distillation provides a rich maltiness that beautifully complements sweet vermouth. If Ransom isn’t available in your area, consider trying Hayman’s Old Tom imported by Eric Seed’s Haus Alpenz line—widely accessible across 40 states and Washington D.C.
Martinez Cocktail Recipe
Servings: 1
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ ounces Old Tom gin
- 1 ½ ounces sweet vermouth (Carpano Antica is my top choice)
- 1 teaspoon maraschino liqueur
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- Lemon twist for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Pour in the gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and orange bitters.
- Stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a pre-chilled cocktail glass.
- Express lemon peel over the drink to release its oils; rub it around the rim before discarding.
Special Equipment Needed: Mixing glass and cocktail strainer
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
---|---|---|
Calories | 190 | |
Total Fat | 0g | 0% |
Saturated Fat | 0g | 0% |
Cholesterol | 0mg | |
Sodium | 5mg | 0% |
Total Carbohydrate | 10g | 4% |
Dietary Fiber | 1g | – |
Total Sugars | 6g | – |
Protein | 0g | – |
Vitamins & Minerals:
- Vitamin C: 8mg (39%)
- Calcium: 12mg (1%)
- Iron: 0mg (1%)
- Potassium: 53mg (1%)
The % Daily Value (%DV) indicates how much a nutrient in one serving contributes to your daily diet based on a general intake of about 2,000 calories per day.
(Note: Nutrition information provided here is estimated using an ingredient database.)
Indulge in this exquisite blend that pays homage to cocktail history while delivering exceptional flavor!