How to Make a Martini

Whether you prefer vodka or gin, crafting the perfect martini is simpler than you may think. Follow our step-by-step guide to make this cocktail like a pro.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 ounces of vodka or gin
• 1/2 once of dry vermouth
• Ice cubes (enough to fill your mixing glass or shaker three-quarters full)
• Optional garnish: Green olives or a lemon for lemon twists

By following these simple steps, you’ll become a master at crafting this timeless cocktail. Here’s exactly how to make a martini:

1. Fill Your Mixing Glass or Shaker With Ice

What You’ll Need: A mixing glass for a stirred martini or a cocktail shaker for a shaken martini.

Begin by filling your mixing glass or shaker with ice until it’s roughly three-quarters full. This will ensure your martini is chilled to perfection.

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2. Measure Your Ingredients

What You’ll Need: A jigger to measure your ingredients and ensure they’re the correct proportions.

Next, measure your ingredients. Mix 2 1/2 ounces of vodka or gin with 1/2 ounce of dry vermouth, using the jigger to ensure the correct ratio of each liquor. Adjust the amount of vermouth used to your liking – more vermouth creates a wet martini, while less vermouth makes it drier.

3. Stir or Shake

What You’ll Need: A bar spoon to stir your martini and create its smooth texture

Stir or shake your martini to combine the ingredients. For stirring, use the bar spoon to mix your drink for approximately 30 seconds. For shaking, close your cocktail shaker, then thoroughly shake your drink for the same amount of time.

4. Strain Your Drinks

What You’ll Need: A mesh strainer to leave behind ice particles and achieve your cocktail’s silky appearance.

Grab a fine mesh strainer, then strain your beverage into a chilled martini glass. The strainer allows you to pour a smooth cocktail free of ice particles.

5. Garnish, Serve, & Enjoy

What You’ll Need: A martini glass for serving your cocktail and a cocktail pick or peeler for your garnish.

Finally, top your martini with the garnish of your choice. Olives provide a savory flavor that pairs well with vodka, while lemon twists contribute a citrusy tang that enhances the flavor of gin. Olives can be placed directly on a cocktail pick that rests atop the rim of your martini glass. To create lemon twists, simply use a peeler to remove small strips of lemon peel from the fruit’s skin. Twist them into spirals, then place them in your drink. Now, you’re ready to enjoy!

Tip!

Curious to learn more about other Types of Cocktail Glasses & Barware? Read our guide for an overview of everything you need to stock your home bar.

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