Martinez cocktail
The Martinez cocktail is one of the great classics of mixology, often credited as the forerunner to the modern Martini. First appearing in bartending guides in the late 19th century, it combines the botanicals of gin with the sweetness of vermouth and a touch of maraschino liqueur.
Smooth, slightly sweet, and aromatic, the Martinez cocktail bridges the gap between whiskey-based drinks like the Manhattan and gin cocktails such as the Negroni.
- Prep Time:
- Total Time:
- Servings: 1
- Type: Cocktail
- Units: 2.1
Equipment
- martini glass
Ingredients
- 45 ml gin
- 45 ml sweet vermouth
- 1 tsp maraschino liqueur
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 lemon twist
Instructions
- Add the gin, vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and bitters into a mixing glass with ice
- Stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
FAQ
How strong is a Martinez cocktail?
A standard Martinez contains about 2.1 units of alcohol, when prepared with 45ml of 40% ABV gin and 45ml of 15% ABV vermouth.
What’s the difference between a Martinez and a Martini?
The Martinez uses sweet vermouth and maraschino liqueur, while the Martini is drier and simpler, made with dry vermouth.
Is the Martinez related to the Manhattan?
Yes, but the Martinez swaps whiskey for gin, while the Manhattan uses rye or bourbon with sweet vermouth.
Which gin should I use in a Martinez?
Traditionally, Old Tom gin is preferred, but a London Dry gin also works well, similar to what you’d use in a Gin & Tonic.
What other cocktails are similar to the Martinez?
If you like the Martinez, you may also enjoy the whiskey-based Rob Roy, the bittersweet Negroni, or the vermouth-forward Boulevardier.