Dry Martini Variations

Like anything else, the Classic Dry Martini has its variations, some - in fact, MANY - of which are wonderful enhancements to the original recipe. Here are some that I consider to be nice options, without significantly changing the wonderful gestalt of THE classic of classic cocktails.

Dirty Martini: FDR is said to have enjoyed his martinis with a TEASPOONFUL of olive brine, added to the dry martini. Unlike the Dirty Martinis served today, in which olive brine makes up a good portion of the beverage, the true Dirty Martini contains only a HINT of olive brine, to add a touch of saltiness.

Vodkatini: Because not everyone likes the botanicals found in gin (usually juniper), please feel free to substitute your favorite, good quality vodka, for the gin in the original recipe.

Vesper: Too sweet for my taste, but THIS is the martini made famous by author Ian Fleming, in his James Bond nov

els. One part gin, one part vodka, and one part Lillet (a sweet aperitif). This is SHAKEN, NOT STIRRED, then strained into a cocktail glass and garnished with a slice of orange. The character James Bond created this version as an homage to a favorite female spy named Vesper.

The Icy Clean: My invention. Into a cocktail shaker, place ice, 2 oz gin, dash of extra dry vermouth, and two strips of lemon peel. Shake the heck out of it, for one minute, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. NO GARNISH. It's icy cold and has only the faintest hint of citrus.

Gibson: This variation on the Classic Dry Martini was reputedly created for Charles Dana Gibson, the artist known best for his beautiful "Gibson Girl" illustrations. While visiting London, he reputedly asked a bartender to make him something different. The bartender complied by making a Classic Dry Martini, then garnishing it with a pickled pearl onion. The tartness of the onion made this an immediate hit, and there are Gibson devotees everywhere.