The Story Behind The Martinez
The Martinez is a classic variation on the Manhattan and a precursor to the Martini. Though its origins are unclear, a popular story insists that 19th-century bartender and author Jerry Thomas first mixed the drink for a customer passing through the city of Martinez, Calif.
Whatever may have inspired the cocktail’s first concoction, the first written records of the Martinez can be found in O.H. Byron’s “The Modern Bartender’s Guide.” Published in 1884, the only instructions read, “Same as Manhattan, only you substitute gin for whisky.”
Three years later, Thomas’s “The Bar-tender’s Guide” came out with its own recipe for the Martinez, which is more similar to the one we know today. That is, equal parts gin and sweet vermouth with the addition of Angostura bitters and Maraschino liqueur. Garnish with a lemon twist, and enjoy the best parts that the Manhattan and Martini have to offer, all in one glass.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces gin
- 1 1/2 ounces sweet vermouth
- 1/4 ounce Maraschino liqueur
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Garnish: lemon twist
Directions
- Add ingredients to a mixing glass with ice and stir until chilled.
- Strain into a coupe glass, express your lemon twist, and garnish.
Recipe Rating
