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Beverages

Martini: the story of the most famous cocktail 
Beverages

Martini: the story of the most famous cocktail 

By Gretel Morales - 2024-06-14T14:48:10Z
Within gastronomy, there is a special place dedicated to beverages: mixology! This branch seeks to create unique blends of ingredients and spirits to give way to incredible cocktails that captivate us from the very first sip. While there are many good drinks, today we will focus on the martini, one of the most famous drinks in history. 

You have surely seen the martini in various movies or TV shows. It is always presented as a simple, refreshing, and very sophisticated cocktail. If you have tried it, you know that, despite being simple, it has a unique flavor. Discover the incredible story behind the martini!  

You can also read: 8 cocktails to share with friends

The fascinating history of the martini 

If you have seen any of the James Bond movies, then you know that special agent 007 drinks martinis. This cocktail has become a classic, but also a symbol of pop culture. Have you tried it? 

According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, there are different versions regarding the creation and authorship of the martini.  
  • It is said that this cocktail was created by a bartender in Martinez, California, during the 19th century. Legend has it that "a miner asked the bartender to prepare something special." The encyclopedia notes that the bartender named his creation the "Martinez Special."  
  • Another version regarding the origin of the martini states that this drink got its name thanks to the vermouth brand Martini & Rossi. 
  • One legend tells that a bartender named Martini di Arma di Taggia was the mastermind behind the birth of the martini in 1911, in a hotel in New York.  
Although many of these stories have not been 100% verified, they have become part of popular lore and have been told for many years. Where do you think the martini was invented? 

See more: 4 cocktails with mezcal to enjoy in the heat

Gin vs. Vodka

The martini causes division among mixologists and diners, as some prefer it with gin and others with vodka.  

The first recipe for the martini is made with 
  • Gin 
  • Vermouth 
  • Lemon peel or olive 
The combination of spirits and the citrus touch achieve a unique balance of flavors, making it a very sophisticated and refreshing cocktail.  

Years later, a new version of the martini was suggested, which substitutes gin for vodka. But this has caused controversy among bartenders, as many argue that the true martini should be made with gin, as the flavors stand out more. 

The perfect martini 

At kiwilimón, we also have a space dedicated to cocktails, so we share our recipe for making the perfect martini. Are you ready to try it? 
  • 2 1/2 ounces of gin 
  • 1/2 ounce of vermouth 
  • Ice 
  • Olives 
Instructions  
  1. Add ice to the shaker and pour in the gin and vermouth. 
  2. Stir the mixture gently. 
  3. Serve the martini and garnish with olives. 
Now that you know a little more about the legends surrounding the origin of the martini and the existing versions, don’t miss this recipe to prepare a martini, a drink worthy of James Bond!  

Also, don't forget that at kiwilimón we have a wide variety of cocktail and drink recipes for your parties, gatherings, dinners, and more. Find the recipes here: Continue reading: Cocktails to welcome spring