PHILADELPHIA - A martini can range from being a simple combination of gin and vermouth to more intricate beverages that incorporate wine, wines with fruity or floral tones (think lavender and rosemary or more astringent flavors such as cucumber and basil), acid powders or effervescent gin substitutes that can tune its frequency for maximum enjoyment.
Martinis are versatile cocktails, offering everything from fruity fun to sensual seduction. However, master bartenders know that creating the perfect martini requires careful consideration of several key components:
Ian Fleming's novels and films depict James Bond ordering both gin and vodka martinis shaken up - but according to experts, he may be doing it all wrong: for a classic martini, the drinks should only contain gin, vermouth, bitters, and lemon twist.
But great martinis should go beyond just tasting great; they should also feature the appropriate garnish. At Vernick, JB Bernstein uses Dolin dry vermouth to soften Plymouth Gin's bright sweetness; at-home bartenders can experiment with various vermouth combinations until they find one they enjoy the most.
Not even the best martinis can do justice without the perfect olives! To create your own at home, get some Saltverk's Birch Smoked salt ($13), add it to your drinks, then stock up on hearty unstuffed green Chalkidiki olives from $12 that come in small brine containers and soak up all that gin flavor without giving off extra water in your drink glass.
