Esquire Martini Cocktail Recipe
Esquire Martini Nutrition Facts
Calories:200
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:0g
Alcohol %:40
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Esquire Martini is a classic cocktail that has been around since the early 20th century. It is named after the famous men's magazine, Esquire, which is known for its sophisticated and stylish content. This cocktail is a favorite among those who appreciate a strong, dry martini. It's a simple yet elegant drink that is perfect for any occasion.
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Era: Early 20th century
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Taste Profile: Strong, dry
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Ideal For: Sophisticated gatherings, quiet evenings
How Esquire Martini Tastes?
The Esquire Martini is a strong, dry cocktail. It has a crisp, clean taste with a hint of bitterness from the vermouth. The gin provides a robust, juniper-forward flavor that is balanced by the subtle sweetness of the orange bitters.
Interesting facts about Esquire Martini
- The Esquire Martini is named after the men's magazine, Esquire.
- This cocktail is known for its strong, dry taste.
- Despite its simplicity, the Esquire Martini is considered a sophisticated drink.
Ingredients
- Gin: 2 oz(60ml)
- Dry vermouth: 1 oz(30ml)
- Orange bitters: 2 dashes
- Lemon twist: 1
A few good options for Esquire Martini are:
- Tanqueray Gin
- Roku Japanese Gin
Gin
The botanical heart of the martini, bringing complex, herbaceous flavors. 2 oz is the golden measure ensuring the gin shines without knocking you off your feet. Less gin, and you're swimming in vermouth; more, and you might as well call it a day. Without it, you're not making a martini. Swap for vodka, and you'll get a cleaner, less-flavored base, making for a Vodka Martini.
Mary Mitkina
Dry Vermouth
The yin to gin's yang. At 1 oz, it mellows the gin's assertiveness and brings a touch of herbal goodness. Skimp on it, and the cocktail could become too boozy; drench the spirit in it, and you risk a vermouth-heavy sob-fest. Skipping vermouth? That's called neat gin, my friend. A swap for sweet vermouth makes a different creature—a Martinez.
Alex Green
Orange Bitters
A sprinkle of spice and everything nice. Two dashes provide a subtle citrus spark without turning the drink into orange juice. Forget them, and you miss out on that certain 'je ne sais quoi.' There's no perfect alternative, but you might flirt with Angostura for a spicier twist.
Emma Rose
Lemon Twist
That zesty swish of lemon oils on the surface provides a fragrant welcome. It's the cocktail's silk scarf, negligible in weight but maximal in effect. Leave it out, and you deny yourself the full sensual experience. Swap for an olive, and you switch from citrusy to briny, tailoring the vibe.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Esquire Martini Drink
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add 2 oz of gin, 1 oz of dry vermouth, and 2 dashes of orange bitters.
- Stir well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Pro Tips
- Always use high-quality spirits for the best taste.
- Chill your martini glass before serving for a colder drink.
- Stir, don't shake, to prevent dilution and maintain clarity.
Perfect Pairings
Food Pairings
- Oysters: The brininess of oysters complements the botanicals in gin and the crispness of the vermouth.
- Smoked Salmon: The smoke accentuates the gin's complexity, while the salmon's richness balances the drink's dryness.
- Almonds and Olives: The nuttiness of almonds and the saltiness of olives enhance the herbal notes of the cocktail.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, particularly goat cheese or aged cheddar, pairs well with the martini's botanicals.
Drink Pairings
- Champagne: For a bubbly accompaniment, the lightness of champagne won't overpower the martini.
- Mineral Water: A palate cleanser between sips to enjoy the nuances of the cocktail.
- Non-alcoholic Gin: For a low-ABV evening, pairing with a non-alcoholic gin and tonic complements the botanicals without extra alcohol.
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What you could change in Esquire Martini
- Gin: Can be substituted with vodka for a different taste profile.
- Dry Vermouth: Can be substituted with sweet vermouth for a sweeter taste.
- Orange Bitters: Can be substituted with Angostura bitters for a more traditional martini.
Explore all drinks starting with E here
And of course - twists🍹
Dirty Esquire Martini
Add half an ounce of olive brine to the mixing glass before stirring. This salty twist plays the mineral to the botanicals' floral in a dance of savory and crisp. The finish is earthier, and one might feel as though waltzing through an olive grove.
Sweet Esquire Martini
Replace dry vermouth with sweet vermouth. The outcome is a richer, more rounded character. Like turning up the bass in a song, it resonates with deeper notes of sweetness and warmth, a good choice for those who prefer their evening a touch less dry.
Spicy Esquire Martini
Drop in a slice of fresh jalapeño with the ice. After stirring, you'll have a cocktail that alerts all the senses. It's a fiesta in a glass for those who like their drinks with a kick, and it's not afraid to leave a little tingling in your tempo.
In case you forgot basics how to make Esquire Martini
Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainInsert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Esquire Martini
What glassware is best for an Esquire Martini?
A classic martini glass, often referred to as a 'cocktail glass', is ideal for an Esquire Martini.
Can I add other garnishes to my Esquire Martini?
Traditionally, an Esquire Martini is garnished with a twist of lemon. However, you can also use a green olive or a small cocktail onion.
Are there variations of the Esquire Martini?
Yes, there are many variations. One common variation is the Dirty Martini, which includes some olive brine.
Can I use flavored gin in my Esquire Martini?
Absolutely! Using a flavored gin can add a unique twist to your Esquire Martini.
What is the origin of the Martini?
Although there are many stories about the origin, it's commonly believed that the Martini evolved from a cocktail called the Martinez in the mid-1800s.
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