Martinez
Stir all ingredients with ice. Strain into chilled glass
Alcohol
Mixers
Measurement Guide
All measurements are shown in shots by default for easy bartending at home. Use these conversions at your bar.
Fun Facts
Origin
The Martinez is often considered a key ancestor of the modern Martini. Originating in the mid to late 1800s, one popular origin story suggests it was first mixed in Martinez, California, where a gold miner celebrated his newfound fortune with a special drink. Comprising gin, sweet vermouth, Maraschino liqueur, and bitters, the Martinez offers a richer, sweeter profile than its Martini descendant
Popularity
The Martinez gained prominence during the late 19th century, particularly among the patrons of the Occidental Hotel in San Francisco, who would enjoy the drink before taking the ferry to nearby Martinez. It was a staple in the burgeoning cocktail scene of the era, appearing in bartender guides like Jerry Thomas’ 1887 "Bartenders’ Guide"
Culture & History
While not as widely known today as the Martini, the Martinez has had a significant impact on cocktail culture. It represents the evolution of cocktail tastes and mixology techniques from the sweet concoctions of the 19th century to the more sophisticated and potent drinks of the 20th century. The Martinez remains a favorite among cocktail aficionados and historians, appreciated for its depth of flavor and historical significance. It is often revisited in modern craft cocktail bars, serving as a bridge between the past and present of cocktail artistry
