The question of whether a martini is originally made with gin or vodka is a contentious one. There are strong arguments on both sides, and the answer really depends on how you define a martini and what historical evidence you choose to believe.
One school of thought argues that the original martini was indeed made with gin. The story goes that the cocktail can trace its roots back to the 19th century when it was known as a “martinez.” This drink was a mixture of gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and orange bitters. Over time, the proportions of the ingredients shifted, and the drink evolved into what we now know as the martini.
Supporters of the gin martini theory point to the fact that gin has a long history as a base spirit in classic cocktails. Its herbal and botanical flavors provide a unique and complex profile that pairs well with vermouth and bitters. Additionally, the popularity of gin in the United States during the Prohibition era further solidified its status as the original martini spirit.
On the other side of the debate, there are those who argue that the original martini was made with vodka. This belief gained traction in the latter half of the 20th century when vodka began to surpass gin in popularity. The vodka martini, also known as the “vodkatini,” gained prominence thanks to cultural icons like James Bond, who famously ordered his martinis “shaken, not stirred.”
Proponents of the vodka martini theory argue that the simplicity and neutrality of vodka allow the vermouth and other flavors to shine through. They claim that vodka's rise to prominence in the martini is a reflection of changing tastes and preferences, rather than a deviation from the original recipe.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have encountered both gin and vodka martinis. I have enjoyed the herbal complexity of a well-made gin martini, where the botanicals of the gin interact with the vermouth and bitters to create a harmonious balance of flavors. At the same time, I have appreciated the clean and crisp character of a vodka martini, where the focus is on the subtleties of the vermouth and any added garnishes.
Ultimately, the question of whether a martini is originally gin or vodka is a matter of interpretation and personal preference. Both versions have their merits and can be enjoyed in their own right. It is perhaps best to embrace the diversity of the cocktail world and appreciate the martini in all its variations.