A Churchill martini is indeed primarily made with gin, but it is not simply gin in its pure form. It is a cocktail that consists of straight gin that has been diluted with ice and garnished with either a lemon twist or olives. The key distinction of a Churchill martini lies in its dryness, or lack of vermouth.
The term “Churchill” in relation to martinis came about because of the drinking preferences of Sir Winston Churchill, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He famously enjoyed his martinis so dry that he once stated, “I would like to observe the vermouth from across the room while I drink my martini.” This quote reflects his preference for a minimal amount of vermouth in his martini, if any at all.
To make a Churchill martini, you start with a base of gin. The choice of gin is crucial, as it will greatly influence the flavor of the cocktail. There are a wide variety of gins available, each with its own unique botanical blend and flavor profile. Some popular options include London Dry Gin, Plymouth Gin, and Tanqueray.
Once you have selected your gin, you add ice to a mixing glass or shaker. The use of ice serves two purposes – it chills the gin and also dilutes it slightly, which can help mellow out the strong alcohol taste. Next, you add the desired amount of gin to the ice, depending on your personal preference and the size of the martini glass you will be using.
The final step is the garnish. Traditionally, a Churchill martini is garnished with either a lemon twist or olives. The choice between the two is a matter of personal preference. A lemon twist can add a hint of citrus aroma and a touch of acidity to the drink, while olives provide a savory and briny element.
It is important to note that the absence or minimal use of vermouth in a Churchill martini sets it apart from other variations of the classic martini cocktail. Vermouth is a fortified wine that is typically used as a key ingredient in a traditional martini to add depth and complexity to the drink. However, in a Churchill martini, the focus is on the pure, unadulterated flavor of the gin.
A Churchill martini is not just gin in its pure form, but rather a cocktail made with gin that is diluted with ice and garnished with either a lemon twist or olives. The term “Churchill” refers to the dryness of the martini, with minimal or no vermouth added. It is a cocktail that pays homage to the drinking preferences of Sir Winston Churchill, who famously enjoyed his martinis with a very small amount of vermouth.