The Martinez is a lush, spiced cocktail from the 1880s that predates the Martini, blending Old Tom gin with vermouth, maraschino, and bitters for a rounder, richer profile than its more famous descendant.
Recipe Source
Visit Mr. Boston DrinksFrom Mr. Boston Drinks · by Mr. Boston Official Bartender's Guide
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Shake up thoroughly, and strain into a large cocktail glass.
quarter of a slice of lemon in the glass and serve.
If the guest prefers
it very sweet, add two dashes of gum syrup.
mixing glass · bar spoon · cocktail strainer · coupe or cocktail glass · jigger (for accurate pony/wine glass measures)
The Martinez uses sweeter Old Tom gin, maraschino liqueur, and more vermouth, creating a lush, round flavor. The Martini is drier and crisper, using London Dry gin with minimal vermouth.
Old Tom gin is semi-sweet and essential to the Martinez character. London Dry gin will make it too dry and lose the spice balance. Stick with Old Tom if possible.
Stir the Martinez with ice in a mixing glass for 30 seconds to chill and dilute evenly, then strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.
Use a dry or slightly sweet Italian vermouth (like Carpano Antica Formula or Dolin Vermouth de Chambéry) to balance the maraschino and bitters.
A pony is 1 ounce; a wine glass is typically 2–2.5 ounces in classic cocktail terms. Adjust to your taste preference for gin-to-vermouth ratio.
