The classic vodka martini stands as one of the most elegant cocktails ever created. Its clean, crisp taste and simple preparation have made it a favorite in bars and homes for over 100 years.

A perfect vodka martini combines premium vodka and dry vermouth in a 6:1 ratio, garnished with either olives or a lemon twist.

James Bond helped make this drink famous by ordering it “shaken, not stirred” in many of his movies. While bartenders often shake vodka martinis today, traditionalists still prefer the stirred method to keep the drink crystal clear.

The martini’s popularity grew in the 1950s when vodka started replacing gin as the spirit of choice in America. Now, the vodka martini appears on nearly every cocktail menu and remains a symbol of sophistication at parties and gatherings.

Classic Vodka Martini Cocktail Recipe

The classic vodka martini combines premium vodka and dry vermouth in a chilled cocktail glass, garnished with olives or a lemon twist. This elegant drink requires precise measurements and proper chilling techniques for the best results.

John

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size

Equipment

Martini glass or coupe glass

Cocktail shaker
Hawthorne strainer
Jigger or measuring tool

Bar spoon
Ice

Ingredients

2.5 oz premium vodka

0.5 oz dry vermouth
Ice for shaking
Garnish options:

2-3 olives on a cocktail pick
Lemon twist

Instructions

Fill the martini glass with ice and water to chill. Set aside.

Add vodka and dry vermouth to the cocktail shaker.
Fill the shaker 3/4 full with ice cubes.
Shake for 10-15 seconds until the shaker feels very cold.

Empty the ice and water from the martini glass.
Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.
Add chosen garnish.

Notes

The ratio of vodka to vermouth can be adjusted to taste. Less vermouth makes a drier martini.

Store vodka in the freezer for an extra-cold drink.

For a “dirty” martini, add 0.5 oz olive brine to the shaker.

Ask for the martini “with a twist” to get the lemon garnish or “with olives” for the classic olive garnish.

Avoid shaking too long, which can over-dilute the drink.

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Tasting Notes

A classic vodka martini brings a clean, crisp taste with subtle hints of juniper from the vermouth. The first sip feels cold and smooth on the tongue.

The drink starts neutral and builds to a gentle warmth. The vermouth adds light herbal notes and a touch of sweetness that balances the vodka’s pure character.

The olive garnish provides a salty contrast that enhances the martini’s dry profile. When served extra cold, tiny ice crystals can form on top, adding a pleasant texture.

A well-made vodka martini should taste pure and refined without any harsh alcohol burn. The finish is clean with a mild warmth that lingers briefly.

Temperature plays a key role in the taste. The colder the drink, the more subtle the flavors become. As it warms slightly, more herbal notes from the vermouth emerge.

The drink’s texture is silky smooth with medium body. Each sip coats the mouth evenly and provides a satisfying weight on the tongue.

Substitute

A dry vermouth substitute can be made with white wine mixed with a tiny amount of brandy. This creates a similar taste profile to vermouth.

For vodka alternatives, gin makes the most popular replacement. The gin creates a cocktail called a Gin Martini. Many people enjoy this more than the vodka version.

Non-alcoholic versions can use cold water or club soda instead of vodka. Replace vermouth with white grape juice mixed with a splash of apple cider vinegar.

Common Substitutes:

For Vodka: gin, white rum, or water

For Vermouth: white wine + brandy, or grape juice + vinegar
For Olives: lemon twist, cocktail onions, or capers

The amounts stay the same when using these replacements. Mix them exactly as you would in the regular recipe.

Some bartenders use blanc vermouth instead of dry vermouth. This creates a slightly sweeter drink while keeping the classic martini style.

Classic Vodka Martini Cocktail Recipe