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Feast + West: Easy Elegant Entertaining

the straight up on a classic🍸

Published 28 days ago • 2 min read

easy, elegant entertaining

Hey, Reader!

When I think of martinis few cocktails evoke the same sense of sophistication. From its origins in the 1800's to its iconic status today, the martini’s cultural significance and enduring appeal make this cocktail a great choice, time after time.

Martinis are definitely an acquired taste: They’re dry, not sweet, and have hints of herbs and citrus, thanks to the gin and bitters. If you're not a fan yet, there's still hope for you yet. When I was in bartending school I learned how to make martinis and its many, many twists — but I wouldn’t drink one back then. Now, they're one of my go-to cocktails!

If you’re a martini newbie, I recommend making a martini with the classic 3:1 ratio, then trying other variations like these to see what you like:

classic martini

The classic martini is fairly simple, with only three ingredients. Gin, dry vermouth and orange bitters create this savory sipper, with a lemon twist as a traditional garnish. Prefer a little more gin? The dry martini has a ratio you'll love.

vodka martini

With variations in preparation, garnishes and ratios of vodka to vermouth, the vodka martini is customizable to your individual preferences. Its clean flavor is more palatable to some when compared to the more herbal and floral flavors of gin.

dirty martini

Studded with green olives and a splash of olive brine, the dirty martini is one of the most recognized cocktails around the world. If you like a salty drink or a potent cocktail, this one is for you!

pickled martini

The pickled martini is an easy riff on the dirty martini using, you guessed it, pickles! Use pickle juice and a pickle garnish in place of the olive brine and olive garnish for this tasty sipper. If pickles aren't your favorite, you may prefer the cucumber martini, which is packed with fresh flavor and just a touch of sweetness.

vesper martini

This variation on the classic recipe uses gin, vodka and Lillet Blanc, and is certified delicious by 007 himself! Bond's favorite martini is light, slightly sweet and comes together in a snap.

Martinis are a great happy hour drink before a meal, mainly because they are savory cocktails that get your appetite ready for food. Add some blue cheese olives to the menu (or use them as a garnish) for the perfect salty compliment to your drink, get mixing and enjoy!

Get stirring!

Susannah

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about me

Hi! I’m Susannah, here to help you bring a touch of elegance to every gathering. From cocktails to quick bites, I share simple, stylish recipes that bring people together.

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Feast + West: Easy Elegant Entertaining

Susannah Brinkley Henry

I'm your cocktail bestie! Together we'll shake things up and make everything from classic cocktails to creative concoctions, and even mocktails from time to time. Follow me for delicious drink recipes, boozy desserts and appetizer pairings for easy, elegant entertaining.

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