profile

Feast + West: Easy Elegant Entertaining

the straight up on a classic🍸

Published about 2 months 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

★★★★★
​Did you know? If you make a recipe you found online, rating it directly helps the website and lets people know it's worth trying. If you make one of my recipes, please leave a review letting me know how it went! Look for the ★ symbol.

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.

your drink companion

$27.00

The Ultimate Home Bar Guide

Learn how to stock your bar to better serve yourself and guests with everything from spirits and garnishes to tools and... Read more
​

Keep exploring! Find your next favorite recipe here.
​Want to mix things up or make it non-alcoholic? Try these swaps and substitutions.​​
​Unsubscribe · Preferences​

PO Box 584, Pineville, NC 28134

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.

Read more from Feast + West: Easy Elegant Entertaining
Two copper mugs with copper straws filled with a cocktail, ice and lime wedge.

easy, elegant entertaining This email may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. Hey, Reader! I don't think it's any surprise that Moscow mules are a fan favorite. They are one of my top requested recipes and everyone goes crazy for the many variations. Plus, mules have no season. They're refreshing in the summer, spicy enough to warm you in the winter and absolutely delicious every day of the year. There's even...

6 days ago • 2 min read
An ombre red drink in a stemmed glass with a lime wedge on the rim.

easy, elegant entertaining Hey, Reader! When it comes to wine, there are a lot of choices. White, red, rosé, sparkling... it can be a lot. Plus, where cocktails can go with almost anything, some wines pair better with foods than others. Luckily, you don't have to choose between these types of booze. When you blend these two worlds — literally — by making wine cocktails, it's a win-win. Thanks to their fruit base, wines provide a range of fruity flavors that make for some very tasty drinks....

13 days ago • 2 min read
A blackberry cocktail garnished with a lime wedge and mint leaves holds a purple and white striped straw.

easy, elegant entertaining Hey, Reader! I'm of the opinion that there are a few drinks every at-home bartender should have under their belt, and the classic mojito is one of them. It's easy to mix up and always a crowd pleaser. Rum, lime juice and fresh mint are a compelling combination that's delicious and refreshing; you can even opt for a virgin version so everyone can enjoy the flavors without the booze. The mojito also plays well with others — flavors that is! Fruit is an easy add-in...

27 days ago • 2 min read