A bone dry martini is a classic cocktail made with gin or vodka and a minimal amount of dry vermouth. The term “bone dry” refers to the absence of vermouth or the use of just a tiny amount, resulting in a very dry and crisp martini.
To make a bone dry martini, start by chilling a martini glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice and water while you prepare the drink. This will ensure the cocktail stays refreshing and cold throughout.
Next, take a bottle of dry vermouth and give the glass a quick rinse. This means pouring a small amount of vermouth into the glass, swirling it around to coat the inside, and then discarding the excess. This step imparts a subtle hint of vermouth without overwhelming the drink with its herbal flavors.
Now it's time to prepare the base of your bone dry martini. You can choose between gin or vodka, depending on your preference. Some people believe that gin is the classic choice for a martini, as it adds complexity and botanical flavors, while others prefer vodka for its clean and neutral taste.
If using gin, select a high-quality London dry gin or a gin that suits your taste. If you opt for vodka, go for a smooth and well-rounded brand. Fill a mixing glass or shaker with ice and add a generous pour of your chosen spirit.
Now, you have a couple of options for mixing the drink. Traditionally, a Martini is stirred rather than shaken, as shaking can dilute the cocktail and lead to a slightly different texture. However, some people prefer the extra chill and slight aeration that shaking provides. It ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Once you've decided whether to stir or shake, gently mix the gin or vodka with the ice for about 20-30 seconds. This allows the drink to become properly chilled and ensures a good integration of flavors.
After stirring or shaking, strain the liquid into your chilled and rinsed martini glass. The result should be a crystal-clear and bone dry martini, ready to be enjoyed.
It's worth noting that a bone dry martini is an acquired taste, as the absence of vermouth allows the full strength and character of the spirit to shine through. If you're new to martinis or prefer a more balanced cocktail, you might want to start with a standard martini recipe that includes a larger proportion of vermouth.
A bone dry martini is a minimalist cocktail that emphasizes the spirit of choice by using little to no vermouth. It's a drink for those who appreciate the purity and strength of their gin or vodka, with a crisp and refreshing character. So, if you're looking for a cocktail that's all about the spirit, a bone dry martini might be just the thing for you. Cheers!