Crafting the Perfect Martini: A Recipe for Perfection
When it comes to iconic cocktails, the martini reigns supreme. But with so many variations out there, what makes a truly exceptional martini? We turned to award-winning bartender Matt Seigel, formerly of NoMad and Eleven Madison Park, to share his secrets for creating the ultimate martini experience.
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
Seigel’s recipe begins with a smooth, high-quality gin, which provides a crisp foundation for the drink. Next, he adds a generous amount of dry vermouth – not sweet, as some might suggest. The real game-changer, however, is the addition of a dash of orange bitters, which adds a subtle yet sophisticated depth to the flavor profile.
Chilling: The Key to a Perfect Martini
Before you even start mixing, it’s essential to ensure your glassware is super-chilled. Place both your mixing glass and coupe in the freezer for at least thirty minutes ahead of time. This step may seem trivial, but it makes all the difference in the world.
A Simple yet Elegant Recipe
With your ingredients and glassware ready, it’s time to bring everything together. In the chilled mixing glass, combine the orange bitters, dry vermouth, and gin. Add ice to fill the mixing glass and stir quickly until well chilled – about 20 seconds should do the trick. Strain the mixture into the chilled coupe and garnish with a lemon twist.
Recipe Details
Yield: 1 drink
Difficulty: Easy
Total Time: Under 5 minutes
Active Time: Under 5 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 dash orange bitters
- 1 ounce Dolin dry vermouth
- 2 1/2 ounces Plymouth gin
- Ice
- Lemon twist
Variations:
If you prefer a vodka-based martini with a hint of vermouth, be sure to check out our Filthy Martini recipe for a delicious alternative.
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