Many people think a classic vodka martini is the quintessential James Bond martini, but it’s not–the Vesper Martini is actually 007’s drink of choice. It’s a similar cocktail, but the Vesper is made with both vodka and gin and uses Lillet Blanc.
A classic vodka martini, on the other hand, is a straightforward drink that only has 3 ingredients–vodka, vermouth, and a lemon twist. However, there are quite a few slight variations.
What’s the difference between a classic vodka martini and a dirty vodka martini?
A classic vodka martini only has 3 ingredients–vodka, vermouth, and a lemon twist. To make it dirty, add a splash of olive juice (no more than ½-1 ounces).
What does a “dry” martini mean?
The term “dry” refers to how much vermouth is in the drink–the less vermouth, the drier the drink is. So if you order a “dry, dirty martini,” the bartender will make you a vodka martini with a splash of vermouth, a splash of olive brine, and olives.
Tips on Making a Classic Vodka Martini
Although our favorite British spy always orders his martinis “shaken, not stirred,” don’t take Bond’s advice on this–stir your martinis. Shaking a liquor-forward cocktail will change the mouthfeel of the drink. Stirring your martini will make it much smoother.
You may also notice that anytime you order at a bar, your bartender will give you one or three olives, never two. This is because even numbers are considered bad luck, and so two or four olives aren’t the best choice for a drink. Regardless of superstition, serving your martini with one or three olives is more traditional.
Buddy’s Dry, Dirty Vodka Martini
Servings: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
- 3 oz vodka
- Splash of dry vermouth
- ½-1 oz olive juice
- 1 or 3 olives for garnish
How to Make a Classic Vodka Martini (Dry + Dirty)
- Splash chilled martini glass with vermouth and then discard vermouth.
- In a mixing glass with ice, stir the vodka and olive juice until well-chilled.
- Strain into martini glass and add 3 skewered olives.
