Dirty Martini
A sophisticated and savory variation of the classic cocktail, the Dirty Martini incorporates olive brine to add a salty, cloudy kick to the crisp blend of vodka and dry vermouth.
What it tastes like
Aromas of brine and faint citrus zest lead into a sharp, savory palate defined by salt and grain. The mouthfeel is cold and slightly oily from the olive brine and spirits. It finishes dry with a lingering saltiness and a crisp alcohol bite.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Vodka70 ml
- Dry Vermouth1 tbsp
- Olive Brine2 tbsp
- Lemon1 wedge
- Green Olive1 whole
Preparation
- 1
Pour the vodka, dry vermouth, and olive brine into a cocktail shaker filled with a handful of ice.
- 2
Shake the mixture vigorously until well-chilled.
- 3
Rub the rim of a chilled martini glass with the wedge of lemon.
- 4
Strain the contents of the cocktail shaker into the prepared glass.
- 5
Garnish by dropping the green olive into the drink.
Substitutions
- VodkaLondon Dry Gin — This adds botanical notes of juniper and coriander, making the drink more herbal.
- Olive BrinePickled Onion Brine — This creates a sharper, more acidic tang similar to a Gibson.
- Dry VermouthLillet Blanc — This introduces a subtle honeyed sweetness and floral notes that soften the saltiness.
- Green OliveCaperberries — These provide a more intense, mustard-like piquancy and a firmer texture.
Variations
Dirty Gibson
Replace the vodka with gin and garnish with a pickled cocktail onion for an earthy, savory variation.
Spicy Dirty
Add two dashes of hot sauce or a slice of jalapeño to the shaker for a heat-driven finish.