The Resurgence Of The Gin Martini: A Timeless Elixir Reimagined
The gin martini is more than just a delicious, stiff drink; it’s a relic of cocktail culture that’s endured and evolved over more than a century. Conjuring images of dimly lit bars, the clink of glassware and the murmur of intimate conversations; since its inception in the late 1800s, the martini has seen numerous variations, adapting to the tastes and trends of each era without losing its core identity.
According to Sean Baxter, Co-founder and Brand Director of Never Never Distilling Co., there aren’t many cocktails that have the unique ability to connect us with the past while staying firmly rooted in the present, offering a taste that’s as alluring today as it was when the first martini was poured.
Fuelled by a growing appreciation for premium spirits and the artistry of mixology, gin (with its complex botanicals and versatile flavour profile) has emerged as the spirit of choice for those seeking to explore the depth and breadth of martini crafting.
Here Sean shares three really good, yet really different variations of the gin martini, and some simple tips and tricks to ensure you can recreate the martini experience at home.
The Gibson Martini
Without a doubt the best thing to come out of America, The Gibson Martini embraces a slightly more savoury twist, using pickled cocktail onions as a garnish.
60ml Never Never Triple Juniper Gin
10ml quality dry vermouth
2 dashes of orange bitters
1 bar spoon of Onion vinegar (optional)
2 Cocktail Onions
Method
1. Add all ingredients to a mixing glass.
2. Fill with ice.
3. Stir until a frost develops on the outside of the mixing glass.
The Dry Gin Martini
Using Never Never’s ARGO Gin as its base, which was developed in collaboration with the iconic ARGO Bar at the Four Seasons Hong Kong, it has a subtle champagne hue and a complex palate.
70mL Dark Series ARGO Gin
10mL Dry Vermouth
Lemon peel to garnish
Method
1. Add gin and vermouth to a mixing glass, add ice and stir.
2. Pour into a chilled martini glass and garnish with lemon peel.
The Pacific Martini
An ode to the sea, this unique martini uses oyster shell-infused gin to deliver a subtle maritime salinity that complements the gin’s botanicals beautifully. It’s a cocktail that speaks of the shore and scratches the itch of anybody who loves savoury martinis.
70mL Dark Series Oyster Shell Gin
10mL Dry Vermouth
Lemon twist to garnish
Method
1. Add gin and vermouth into a mixing glass, add ice and stir well.
2. Pour into a chilled martini glass and garnish with lemon twist.
Mixology Tips and Tricks
Crafting the perfect gin martini is an art form. Here are a few expert tips to elevate your home cocktail experience:
– Chill your glassware: a chilled glass will keep your martini at the perfect temperature longer, enhancing its flavours.
– Experiment with vermouth: the gin-to-vermouth ratio can dramatically alter your martini’s profile. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find your perfect balance.
– Stir, don’t shake: stirring your martini ensures clarity and maintains the gin’s integrity, offering a smoother taste.
– Garnishes matter: the right garnish can transform your martini. Experiment with different options to find what complements your chosen gin’s botanicals best.
Never Never Distilling Co.’s award-winning gins are available now in all good liquor stores.
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