Dry Martini

The story

The Dry Martini's exact origins are debated, but it gained popularity in the late 19th century, particularly in the United States. Its association with sophistication and elegance, especially in the early 20th century, helped solidify its status as a classic cocktail. The drink became widely known through its appearances in literature and film, notably in James Bond's 'shaken, not stirred' preference.

How it tastes

The Dry Martini is characterized by its crisp and refreshing flavor, primarily from the gin, with a subtle herbal note from the dry vermouth. It is typically served as an aperitif, making it ideal for pre-dinner sipping or at social gatherings.

Getting it right

The key to a perfect Dry Martini lies in the balance between gin and vermouth and the stirring technique. Stirring gently with ice ensures proper dilution and chilling without over-aerating the drink, resulting in a smooth texture.

Variations

• Dirty Martini — Adds olive brine for a salty flavor, typically garnished with olives.
• Vesper Martini — Combines gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc, famously ordered by James Bond.
• Gibson — Similar to a Dry Martini but garnished with a pickled onion instead of an olive.

Substitutions

• Dry Vermouth — Can be substituted with Lillet Blanc for a slightly sweeter profile.
• Gin — Use vodka for a Vodka Martini, which has a different flavor profile.
• Olive — A lemon twist can be used as an alternative garnish for a different aroma.

Questions

What type of gin is best for a Dry Martini?

A London Dry gin is commonly preferred for its juniper-forward flavor, but you can experiment with different styles like Old Tom or Plymouth gin.

How much vermouth should I use?

The amount of vermouth can vary based on personal preference, but a standard ratio is about 1 part vermouth to 5 parts gin.

Should I shake or stir a Dry Martini?

Traditionally, a Dry Martini is stirred to maintain a silky texture and clarity, while shaking can introduce air and create a cloudy appearance.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026