How To Order A Martini Like A Pro

By Nicole Eacuello

Have you been wanting to try a martini but aren’t sure where to start? Here are the five key terms to keep in mind when ordering:

Gin or Vodka – While martinis are traditionally made with gin, they are also (quite popularly) made with vodka. Let your server/bartender know which you’d like when ordering, in addition to the brand if you have a preference.

Wet or Dry – These terms refer to the amount of vermouth you’ll find in your cocktail. Vermouth is a fortified wine that helps balance the flavors and depth in a martini – adding a hint of sweetness and subtle bitterness. You can ask for:

Dry: less vermouth 

Extra dry: even less vermouth (to no vermouth)

Bone dry: no vermouth

Wet: standard amount of vermouth

You can also make it dirty, which means there’s the addition of olive brine! Quite possibly my favorite way to indulge. It’s salty, savory, and absolutely delicious.

Garnish – Some classic garnish options include a lemon twist, olives, or even a pickled onion!

Shaken or Stirred – This is how the cocktail will be chilled – either shaken vigorously in a cocktail shaker with ice, or gently stirred in a mixing glass with ice. While stirred is the traditional style, many opt for the shaken approach, as it infuses more ice into the drink.

Now, let’s put it all together! Perhaps you’d like the following:

Gin or Vodka – Belvedere Vodka (state the brand)

Wet or Dry – Extra dry 

Dirty – No

Garnish – Lemon twist

Shaken or stirred – Shaken

Your order is: an extra dry, belvedere vodka martini, shaken, with a lemon twist.

Once you figure what you like, ordering it will become second nature! For those of you who want to start crafting at home, my recipe for a classic Hot & Dirty martini is a great place to start. Cheers!

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