Martini - Classic IBA Dry Gin & Vermouth Cocktail

The Martini is one of the clearest expressions of a spirit-forward cocktail: gin, dry vermouth, ice, and careful stirring. This dry version uses a 6:1 ratio, keeping gin firmly in the lead while vermouth adds enough herbal and wine-like character to round out the drink. Serve it very cold with lemon or olives.

From Early Cocktail Bars to an International Standard

The Martini's exact origin remains debated, but versions of the drink emerged around the turn of the 20th century as gin-and-vermouth cocktails became increasingly popular. Over time, progressively drier ratios helped shape the Martini into the crisp, stripped-down drink recognized today. It remains one of the IBA's official classic cocktails.

What You'll Need

Ingredients

• Gin - provides the Martini's botanical backbone, structure, and most of its flavor.
• Dry Vermouth - adds herbal, floral, and wine-like notes that soften the gin.

Substitutions

• Prefer vodka? Replacing the gin produces a Vodka Martini, which is a distinct variation rather than a classic Dry Martini.
• No standard dry vermouth? Another quality dry white vermouth can work, but avoid sweet vermouth because it changes the drink's balance entirely.

Equipment

• Mixing glass
• Jigger
• Bar spoon
• Cocktail strainer
• Martini glass
• Citrus peeler or cocktail pick for garnish

Why the 6:1 Ratio Matters

A Martini has nowhere for mistakes to hide. The 6:1 ratio keeps the drink distinctly gin-forward while giving dry vermouth enough presence to soften the alcohol and add aromatic complexity. Stirring supplies the chilling and controlled dilution needed to bring those two ingredients together without changing the Martini's smooth, clear texture.

Substitutions & Variations

• Wetter Martini: Increase the proportion of dry vermouth for a softer, more wine-forward drink.
• Extra-Dry Martini: Reduce the vermouth further for an even more gin-dominant profile.
• Vodka Martini: Replace gin with vodka for a cleaner, more neutral base.
• Dirty Martini: Add olive brine for a savory, saline variation.
• Gibson: Keep the gin and vermouth structure but garnish with cocktail onions.

Helpful Tips

• Chill the Martini glass before mixing so the finished drink stays cold longer.
• Keep dry vermouth refrigerated after opening. It is wine-based and loses freshness over time.
• Use plenty of solid ice and stir until the mixing glass becomes very cold.
• Measure both ingredients. Small ratio changes are noticeable in a two-ingredient cocktail.
• A lemon twist emphasizes the gin's citrus and botanical notes, while olives push the drink in a more savory direction.
• Serve immediately after straining because temperature is a major part of the Martini's texture and character.