As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with some insight into the significance of four coffee beans in an espresso martini. While the traditional espresso martini is garnished with three coffee beans, adding an extra bean may hold a deeper meaning.
The three coffee beans on top of the cocktail are said to symbolize health, wealth, and happiness. These are considered to be the three essential elements for a fulfilling and prosperous life. The tradition of adding three beans can be traced back to the origins of the cocktail, where it was believed that this garnish would bring good fortune to the drinker.
Now, you might be wondering what the addition of a fourth coffee bean would represent. While the meaning of four beans may not be as widely known or accepted as the traditional three, some interpretations suggest that it symbolizes luck or good fortune in love or relationships. It is believed that the fourth bean adds an extra element of positivity and harmony to the person who enjoys the cocktail.
It's important to note that the significance of the number of beans is based on folklore and personal beliefs rather than any strict rules or traditions. Different people may attach their own meanings to the number of beans, and these interpretations can vary widely.
In my personal experience, I have encountered variations of the espresso martini where different numbers of coffee beans were used as a garnish. Some bars and mixologists may experiment with different bean quantities to add a unique touch to the cocktail or to align with their own beliefs or traditions.
To summarize, while three coffee beans on top of an espresso martini traditionally represent health, wealth, and happiness, the addition of a fourth bean may symbolize luck or good fortune in love or relationships. However, it's important to remember that the meaning attached to the number of beans can vary and is largely based on personal beliefs and interpretations.