The Gin Martini

Let us consider the gin martini versus the vodka martini. The former is the fabled original drink—but in the 1980s, vodka began to replace gin as the spirit of choice because it was found by many to be more drinkable. Martini die-hards dismiss the vodka martini as the social climber of the cocktail world, but drinkers across the nation have spoken—so it’s your call, ladies and gents.

The Method The martinis on this page are prepared by the same method; only the garnishes differ. Combine liquid ingredients in a mixing glass. Add ice and shake. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish.

CHATEAU
MARTINI

With a touch of raspberry

3 ounces gin

1 dash dry vermouth

½ ounce Chambord

Orange twist for garnish

DIRTY GIN
MARTINI

Extra olive flavor

3 ounces gin

1 dash dry vermouth

½ ounce olive brine

3 stuffed olives for garnish

GIN
MARTINI

The classic

3½ ounces Tanqueray No. Ten gin

1 teaspoon Cinzano Bianco dry vermouth

Stuffed olive or lemon twist for garnish

NOHO
MARTINI

A lighter variation

2 ounces gin

1 teaspoon dry vermouth

2 ounces pineapple juice

½ ounce Chambord

Small pineapple chunk for garnish

PETER T.’S
MARTINI

With a red vermouth offering “something different.” Herby, bittersweet Punt è Mes has a hint of orange and is slightly syrupy.

3 ounces gin

1 dash dry vermouth

½ ounce Punt è Mes

Orange twist for garnish

SOHO
MARTINI

A little more complex

2½ ounces gin

1 dash dry vermouth

½ ounce Chambord

1 ounce sour mix

1 or 2 raspberries for garnish