Cocktail
Dirty Martini
How to make a Dirty Martini: the savoury Martini classic of vodka or gin with dry vermouth and a splash of olive brine. Served ice-cold and stirred.
4 minPrep time
easyDifficulty
Martini glassGlass
1Serving(s)
The Dirty Martini is the savoury version of the classic Martini: a splash of olive brine makes it saltier and gives it its characteristically cloudy look. Stirred ice-cold and garnished with olives, it is a timeless aperitif for everyone who likes things less sweet.
Instructions
- Pre-chill the martini glass with ice.
- Add vodka, dry vermouth and olive brine to a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir cold for about 20 seconds until the drink is well chilled.
- Empty the ice out of the martini glass.
- Strain the drink into the glass through a bar strainer.
- Garnish with two green olives on a pick.
Garnish: Green olives on a pick
Pro tip: The more olive brine you use, the more savoury and cloudy (dirty) the drink becomes. Work your way up to your own taste.
Frequently asked questions
What makes a martini dirty?
The addition of olive brine gives the drink its savoury, salty note and the slightly cloudy look that explains the name Dirty.
Gin or vodka for the Dirty Martini?
Both are common. Vodka makes a more neutral drink, while gin brings additional juniper and herbal notes.
Which olives are best?
Classically you use pitted green olives, ideally from the same brine that you also add to the drink.
Ingredients
- Vodka (or gin)6 cl
- Dry vermouth (Dry Vermouth)1 cl
- Olive brine1.5 cl
- Green olives2 pieces
- Ice cubesas needed
