How to Make a Classic Gin Martini
The Gin Martini is a timeless classic. Elegant, aromatic and unapologetically grown-up, it's the cocktail that defines sophistication. With just gin, vermouth and a garnish, the magic lies in the balance and the chill factor.
Whether you’re kicking off a dinner party or treating yourself to a well-earned wind-down drink, the Gin Martini is one to have in your cocktail toolkit. Clean and crisp with a botanical backbone, it’s the kind of drink that rewards quality ingredients and a little finesse.
Classic Gin Martini Recipe
Ingredients:
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60ml quality gin like Scapegrace Dry or Tanqueray No.10 (the pros swear by this one!)
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10ml dry vermouth (adjust to taste). We recommend Noilly Pratt or Reid + Reid Dry but any dry vermouth will be alright (just make sure you keep it in the fridge once opened!
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Ice
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Lemon twist or green olive, to garnish
Method:
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Fill a mixing glass with ice. Add the gin and vermouth.
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Stir for 20 to 30 seconds until chilled and just slightly diluted.
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Strain into a super chilled martini glass or coupe.
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Garnish with a lemon twist for brightness, or an olive for something savoury.
Martini Variations Worth Trying
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Dry Martini: Dial back the vermouth for a stronger, sharper sip.
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Wet Martini: Add more vermouth if you like a rounder, softer flavour.
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Dirty Martini: Add a dash of olive brine and go for a salty, savoury twist.
Pro Tips
Start with a great gin. London dry styles are a classic pick, but if you’re feeling bold, try a New Zealand botanical gin like No8 Dunners Dry to add a local twist. Make sure everything is cold — gin, vermouth, glass and mixing tools. This drink is all about that crisp, bracing first sip.
Whether you’re team lemon or team olive, there’s no wrong way to enjoy a Gin Martini. Just adjust the vermouth to your taste, stir with care and enjoy a cocktail that’s stood the test of time.
