How to Add Dry Vermouth to Martinis

The martini is arguably the most classic mixed cocktail. Yet, as simple as it is to make, there is a fastidious attitude about how bartenders mix martinis. In recent years, the vermouth that turns a shot of gin or vodka into a martini has become increasingly ignored. Many people request "dry" or "extra dry" martinis to indicate the absence of vermouth altogether. However, there is an art to making a true martini, and it always requires the addition of dry vermouth.

Things You'll Need

• Gin or vodka
• Dry vermouth
• Measuring jiggers or pour spout
• Ice
• Bar shaker
• Martini glass
• Green olives or twist (optional)

Instructions

1. Add a scoop or 1 cup of ice to the bar shaker. Pour in 2 oz. (count quickly, but steadily to eight using the pour spout) gin or vodka. Traditional martinis are made with gin.

2. Add the vermouth last. Pour 1/2 oz. (this time count quickly to two using the pour spout) of dry vermouth into the shaker. Immediately put the lid on the shaker, and gently shake it twice.

3. Remove the top of the shaker, and pour into the martini glass, focusing the stream on the slanted sides of the glass. Add one to three green olives or a lemon/lime twist to taste.

Tips & Warnings

• The amount of vermouth used in a classic martini should be at a 4-to-1 ratio. If you desire more gin or vodka (indicated by the term "dry"), use an 8-to-1 ratio. This mixture includes only a splash of dry vermouth. Keep in mind that if you do not use any vermouth, you have technically not created a martini at all. Some recent trends have seen vermouth ratio poured as high as 1-to-1. This equal-parts mixture makes for a very unique drink. You can also use sweet vermouth in martinis, but this takes away from the classic recipe.

References

• The Washington Post: How Much Vermouth in a Martini?
• AZ Drink Recipes: Vermouth Recipes