The martini, a classic cocktail served in a petite glass, has gained fresh popularity, thanks in part to its resurgence on cocktail menus and bartenders’ creativity. Historically depicted as a somewhat outdated choice, associated with characters like James Bond and Roger Sterling from Mad Men, the martini is now embraced for its versatility, which allows for numerous adaptations.
Bar Planet, a dedicated martini bar in Sydney’s Newtown, opened three years ago with the aim to revamp the drink’s image, which many believed had become stale or overly traditional. Creative director Jeremy Blackmore notes that while martinis used to lack “pop culture power,” they have now returned with a modern twist on their classic recipe—typically a ratio of five to six parts gin or vodka to one part dry vermouth. Variations such as “wet” or “dirty” martinis, along with creative twists like the turf club or vesper, highlight the drink’s flexibility.
The cocktail renaissance over the last two decades has shifted from a prescriptive approach to a more personalised experience, allowing patrons to participate in crafting their drinks. Jeremy Blackmore suggests that this engagement empowers users to take ownership of their martini choices. Venues like Melbourne’s Caretaker’s Cottage serve over 12,000 martinis annually, indicating a strong demand for this beloved drink.
Martinis become particularly distinctive with just a hint of added ingredients. For instance, incorporating a splash of Chartreuse transforms it into an Alaska, while using sweet vermouth and cherry liqueur yields a martinez. Such variations ensure there’s a martini for every palate, with the dirty martini—featuring olive brine—emerging as a crowd favourite due to its approachable flavour profile.
For those looking to order a martini for the first time, many establishments now offer a “choose-your-own-adventure” menu to help navigate preferences ranging from dryness to desired garnishes. Venues like The Gidley in Sydney provide a selection of additions, allowing customers to customise their drinks further.
Temperature is paramount for maintaining a martini’s flavour. Many bars chill their cocktails for serving; for instance, Libecans at Caretaker’s Cottage serves his at -18°C, as colder drinks provide a more refined tasting experience. Finally, for those keen to recreate this iconic drink at home, Blackmore suggests a highball glass filled with ice and a lemon wedge, or a frozen stemmed glass for an elegant presentation.
For a delightful at-home recipe, Blackmore’s freezer martini combines good quality gin, dry vermouth, a splash of fino sherry, a pinch of salt, sugar, and water, stored in the freezer for ultimate refreshment. Embracing both tradition and experimentation, the martini stands as a timeless choice for cocktail lovers today.