Martinez is a classic cocktail, considered one of the ancestors of the Martini. It combines gin, sweet vermouth and maraschino liqueur for an aromatic, slightly sweet and balanced drink.
The Martinez is considered one of the most important classics in cocktail history because it was one of the biggest steps in the emergence of the modern Martini. Originating in the mid-19th century in America, this drink created a new style by combining popular ingredients of the time.
There are different stories about the origin of the cocktail. According to the most popular account, a gold miner in the town of Martinez in California stopped at a bar before setting off on a long journey and the bartender prepared a special drink for him. This drink consists of gin, sweet vermouth and maraschino liqueur. Over time, this recipe became known by the name of the town and became known as "Martinez".
“Sometimes a beginning gives birth to the greatest classics of the future”
Another rumor says that the famous bartender Jerry Thomas created this cocktail. Thomas' famous bar book, published in 1887, contains a recipe similar to the Martinez, which played an important role in the classicization of the cocktail.
Martinez today has a sweeter and more aromatic profile than the modern Martini. Sweet vermouth and maraschino liqueur give it a more complex and rounded flavor. This is why cocktail historians describe it as the "ancestor" of the Martini.
Today, Martinez is seen as an elegant and historic drink that offers classic cocktail enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the bar culture of the past.
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Ingredients
Unit System
45 mlGin
45 mlSweet Vermouth
5 mlMaraschino Liqueur
2 DashAngostura Bitters
SomeIce
Lemonpeel or cocktail cherry (garnish)
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Method
1
Fill the mixing glass with ice.
2
Add gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur and bitters.
3
Stir with a bar spoon for about 15-20 seconds.
4
Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
5
Garnish with lemon peel or cocktail cherry and serve.
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Bartender Tips
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You can use Old Tom gin for a more authentic taste.
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Maraschino liqueur provides the aromatic balance of the cocktail, do not add too much.
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Stirring for a long time may cause the drink to become too watery.
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