Martini's Mystery History!!

Hello Gang,

For those of you who know me...I love my martini's and for those of you who don't I love martini's...lol!!

The true origin of the martini is draped in mystery! There are differing arguments as to who was the first to create the Martini. Many who claim or have been purported to have created the first Martini have varying recipes and names; none of which exactly fit the Martini recipe that exists today. While opinions differ, the modern day Dry Martini consists of Gin and a varying amount of dry white Vermouth (season to taste). An olive, a twist, or a cocktail onion are all acceptable as a garnish.

The most detailed historical claim begins with a cocktail named the Martinez which was created around 1862. This particular drink of the time called for 4 parts red, sweet Vermouth to 1 part Gin, garnished with a cherry. The first version included aromatic bitters and Old Tom Gin, which was very sweet and incorporated a strong Juniper flavor. The transformation into what is considered a modern Martini happened gradually. First the Old Tom Gin was replaced with London Dry. Orange Bitters took the place of the aromatic bitters. Afficianados began to replace the red Vermouth with a white, dry Vermouth. The proportions of the drink eventually became equal parts and soon the Dry Martini appeared, olive included.


Regardless of the true origin, the quest for the perfect Martini will no doubt continue. Martini bars continue to hit the scene -- and variations of the Martini abound. In the new millenium, it may seem that anything presented in a Martini glass is considered to be a Martini. While that may or may not be true, we advise that you enjoy the moment! If it tastes good, it'll taste even better in a martini glass!

I've added a couple of my favorite martini recipes

Gin Swirl
1.5 oz Gin
1 oz Melon Liquer
Sweetened Lime Juice

Fill a martini shaker with ice, add your ingredients and swirl with a martini spoon or a simple swirl of the shaker will do. Never shake gin as it will bruise the gin and alter the flavor. Waalaa a gin swirl.

Apple Smasher
1.5 oz Jack Daniels
1 oz Sour Apple
3oz Apple Juice

Fill a martini shaker with ice, add your ingredients and shake for approximately 30 seconds. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with an apple slice and a pinch of cinnamon.