The martini is one of the world’s most iconic cocktails – simple, elegant and shaped by decades of changing taste. From its sweeter beginnings to the crisp, dry style enjoyed today, it has become a drink defined by the careful balance of quality spirits and vermouth, served perfectly chilled.[ReadMoreMob]
The exact origins of the martini are a little unclear, but one popular theory places its beginnings in the United States in the late 19th century, with links to the town of Martinez, California. An early version used a mix of Old Tom gin, sweet Italian vermouth, maraschino and bitters, with a Martinez-style recipe appearing in Jerry Thomas’s Bartender’s Guide in 1887.
By the early 20th century, bartenders began favouring drier French vermouth and London Dry Gin in place of the sweeter original, finishing the drink with either an olive or a twist of lemon peel. Tradition suggests the garnish should be served as either a single olive or in a group of three, never as a pair. The reason behind this remains something of a mystery, but it is still observed by some bartenders today.
The martini later found a new kind of fame through James Bond, whose preference for a drink “shaken, not stirred” added a touch of cinematic glamour and helped shape modern tastes. Whether served with gin or vodka, the phrase became part of the martini’s enduring identity.
Today, while vodka-led variations such as the Appletini remain popular, there’s a renewed appreciation for the original gin martini and a return to its balanced, timeless roots, with many bartenders celebrating high-quality vermouths and classic London Dry Gin.
Did you know?
The Espresso Martini is the most popular martini among guests on our ships.
The Cosmopolitan is the most made cocktail at our Martini Experience.
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