How to Make the Perfect Martini

Although classic martini lovers may argue over the label "perfect," a perfect martini, like a perfect Rob Roy or a perfect Manhattan, is a cocktail that uses equal parts of sweet and dry vermouth. It's an easy drink to make. Read on to learn how to make the perfect martini.

Things You'll Need

• 2 oz. gin
• 1/2 oz. dry vermouth
• 1/2 oz. sweet vermouth
• Green olives
• Ice
• Cocktail shaker and strainer
• Martini glass

Instructions

1. Combine the ingredients. Combine the gin and vermouth in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.

2. Shake the martini. Put the lid on the cocktail shaker and shake the drink until well chilled, about 30 seconds.

3. Strain. Strain the drink directly into a martini glass.

4. Garnish and serve. Garnish the martini with two or three olives on a wooden or plastic spear. Serve the cocktail.

Tips & Warnings

• If you prefer, you can serve this cocktail over ice in a short drink glass.

• Although many drink are called martinis these days, a true "martini" is always made with gin.