More Martinis

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The first Martini I ever drank was strictly medicinal, for threatened seasickness, and in spite of a loyal enjoyment of them which may be increasing in direct ratio to my dwindling selectivity of palate, I must admit that I still find them a sure prop to my flagging spirits, my tired or queasy body, even my over-timid social self. I think I know how many to drink, and when, and where, as well as why; and if I have acted properly and heeded all my physical and mental reactions to them, I have been the winner in many an otherwise lost bout with everything from boredom to plain funk. A well-made Martini or Gibson, correctly chilled and nicely served, has been more often my true friend than any two-legged creature.

-- M. F. K. Fisher, "To the Gibson and Beyond" (The Atlantic, January 1949)

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Remember: the only difference between a Martini and a Gibson is that the former gets an olive or lemon twist, the latter a cocktail onion or two. To make a "dirty" Martini serve with an olive and add a little of the olive juice from the jar. Vodka Martinis are OK, but for the full effect I recommend mixing gin (Hendrick's or Plymouth or Tanqueray or Beefeater) with a tablespoon of dry vermouth (preferably French: Noilly Prat); shake with ice, and serve straight up in frozen Martini glasses. Keep the gin (or vodka) in the freezer.

-- DL

Comments

[Stacey]

At one time, I agreed with you (I would "wash" the glass with the vermouth and add chilled gin). Lately though I've grown to like the flavor note that vermouth adds and even splurged on a fancy vermouth (Vya)that tastes quite good on its own. Cheers!

[Benji]

I think people always mess up the martini by adding too much vermouth. I would suggest just doing a wash with the shaker. (Put the vermouth into an empty shaker, swirl it around, and then dump it out.) Then add ice to the shaker and pour a high quality gin (I prefer Martin Miller's Westbourne Strength). Stir everything around to mix the flavours and get it nice and cold, then pour into your lovely chilled glass and twist a lemon peel.
Damn I'm thirsty!