Stirred not Shaken

There is a certain level of Martini madness that goes on in the cocktail underground. This innocent, simple, 2-ingredient cocktail is the source of much scrutiny by those who know better. Not to mention the fact that Bond has totally maligned the legacy of the martini with his seductive accent and dreamy eyes. Martinis should not be shaken. And the real martini snobs will tell you, it should be made with gin and not vodka as Bond likes it.

But as we delve deeper into the season of soirees, we are continuing with our mission to make you the hostess of the summer. Last time we spoke about Island white wines. This week, we’re telling you all about the martini and what to pay attention to to shake your crowd up and stir up some excitement.

People think martinis are simple. But gin has all these things in it…vermouth has all these things in it, and if you throw in the orange bitters, you’re dealing with even more. The balance of all those botanicals is kind of bewitching.” — Simonson

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MARTINI MUSTS

Michelangelo Set of 4 Crystal Martini Glasses

Aubrey Crystal Embellished Slide Sandal

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Without getting to crazy with this cult favorite, there are really 3 elements that you should consider when making a martini:

1. Gin vs Vodka

   The first real decision you have to make is whether to use gin or vodka. Sure, gin is ideal among the martini mavens, but you do have those who don’t like gin, and as a gracious host, you should be prepared to oblige.

2. All about the ratios

   Martinis may only base ingredients — gin/vodka and vermouth. But the ratio is everything. Remember these are very strong, distinct flavors, so naturally balance must be considered. And again, this is where there will be much variation. If you like a really dry martini, go for a splash of vermouth. Ratios range from the standard 50-50 to a 5:1 gin to vermouth ratio.

3. Just like fashion … accessorize

   Here is where you can get creative. Olives, lemon peels, cocktail onions are some of our favorites. If you like it dirty (*wink), just add some olive juice. Or how about a murky nightma? Simply add a blue cheese stuffed olive. And of course you can play around with your bitters.

You might like these too!

Carine Champagne Bucket

Aubrey Crystal Embellished Slide Sandal

Chateau Lead Crystal Decanter

And that’s really it (not really, haha). Of course, it’s super important to chill your glasses ahead of time. And really give it a good stir in the ice, don’t rush through that part. All those heavy hitters — gin, vodka — need the dilution. And remind your guests to pace themselves!

Sip, sip!

xo

SS

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