When it comes to the term “up” in the context of a dirty martini, it refers to the way the drink is served. To understand this fully, let's break it down step by step.
Firstly, a dirty martini is a variation of the classic martini cocktail. It typically includes vodka or gin, dry vermouth, and olive brine, which gives it a slightly salty and savory flavor. The term “dirty” refers to the addition of the olive brine.
Now, when you order a dirty martini “up,” it means that you want the drink prepared in a specific manner. Instead of being served over ice in a traditional rocks glass, the cocktail is shaken or stirred over ice and then strained into a cocktail glass without any ice. This method ensures that the drink is chilled and properly mixed, but without dilution from the melting ice.
The “up” serving style is often preferred for cocktails that are meant to be sipped and savored slowly, allowing the flavors to unfold without being watered down. This presentation also adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the drinking experience.
Speaking from personal experience, sipping a dirty martini served up can be quite enjoyable. The absence of ice allows the flavors to be more concentrated, and you can fully appreciate the balance between the juniper notes of the gin or the smoothness of the vodka, combined with the brininess from the olive brine.
To summarize, when you order a dirty martini “up,” it means that you want the drink prepared by shaking or stirring it over ice, then straining it into a cocktail glass without any ice. This presentation enhances the flavors and allows for a more refined drinking experience.