Salt and Pepper Martini – Pepper Vodka, Dry Vermouth and Seasoned Rim

The Salt and Pepper Martini is an extra-dry vodka Martini with pepper flavor in the spirit and seasoning on the rim. Pepper vodka supplies heat and spice, a small measure of dry vermouth adds herbal structure, and the salt-and-pepper rim sharpens each sip.

Seasoning Matters

This drink is almost entirely spirit, so the rim has a big impact. A light coating adds savory contrast and reinforces the pepper without making the drink taste salty.

What You'll Need

Ingredients

• Pepper vodka – provides the base spirit and pepper heat.
• Dry vermouth – adds a small amount of herbal wine character.
• Salt and pepper – seasons the rim.

Regular vodka can be infused briefly with black pepper or fresh chile when pepper vodka is unavailable, but intensity will vary.

Equipment

Use a small plate for the rim, mixing glass, bar spoon, jigger, strainer, and chilled cocktail glass.

Keep the Rim Light

A full heavy crust can overwhelm an otherwise lean drink. Coat the rim sparingly, or season only half the glass so you can control how much salt and pepper reaches each sip.

Substitutions & Variations

Use only part of the rim for easier control over salt. For a wetter drink, increase the dry vermouth to a quarter ounce.

Helpful Tips

Keep seasoning off the inside of the glass. Stir long enough for controlled dilution because the finished drink is almost entirely spirit.