The Best Dry Martini Recipe
Few cocktails carry the same level of swagger and sophistication as the dry martini. Simple, iconic, and effortlessly cool, it’s a drink with a serious legacy. Originating in the early 20th century, the dry martini evolved as palates shifted toward drier, more refined sips. The result? A spirit-forward masterpiece that rewards the brave and the bold.
A dry martini isn’t for everyone; it’s strong, stripped-back, and unapologetically adult. But for those who like their cocktails crisp, clean, and just a little bit serious, it’s the gold standard.
First Off, What Even Is a Dry Martini?
A dry martini is a minimalist take on the classic martini, with one key difference: less vermouth. “Dry” in cocktail terms usually means lower sugar and more spirit, and this cocktail lives up to the name.
The ingredients are simple but need to be top quality:
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Gin (or Vodka) – The foundation. Bold, botanical gin is classic, but vodka offers a cleaner, smoother profile.
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Dry Vermouth – Just a whisper of it adds complexity without overpowering the gin.
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Garnish – A lemon twist for zest, or an olive for something briny and savoury.
How to Drink a Dry Martini
This isn’t a throw-it-back kind of cocktail; it’s a sipper. Best enjoyed slowly, with a moment to spare and something salty on the side. The garnish you choose makes a difference:
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Lemon twist brings out the bright, citrusy botanicals in the gin.
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Olive adds a touch of savoury brine, leaning into the boldness of the spirit.
Perfect with oysters, salted almonds, or a classy cheese board. Or sip it solo when you’re feeling fancy, it’s your call.
What You’ll Need to Make a Dry Martini
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
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Gin – Go for something clean and botanical, like one from our Good George gin range.
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Dry Vermouth – Look for a good-quality bottle with fresh, herbal notes.
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Ice – Crystal clear, fresh ice is essential for chilling without dilution.
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Garnish – A lemon twist or a green olive.
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Tools – A mixing glass, bar spoon, strainer, and a martini or coupe glass (optional but recommended for the full effect).
How to Make a Dry Martini
Start cold and stay cool, that’s the dry martini motto. Here’s how to get it just right:
Add your gin and vermouth to a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir (don’t shake, unless you’re feeling like Bond) until perfectly chilled. Strain into a pre-chilled martini glass and garnish like a pro.
Want to up your presentation? Chill your glass beforehand, and make sure your garnish is fresh and neatly cut. Because we’re all about the little details.
Dress Up Your Martini with These Twists
While the classic dry martini is a minimalist’s dream, a few clever twists can take it in new directions:
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Dirty Martini – Add a splash of olive brine for a savoury edge.
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50/50 Martini – Equal parts gin and vermouth for a softer, more approachable version.
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Gibson – Swap the olive for a cocktail onion for a tangy, old-school vibe.
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Vesper Martini – A mix of gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc, famously favoured by James Bond.
Experiment and find your signature serve.
Dry Martini FAQs
What’s the ideal gin-to-vermouth ratio?
Start with 60ml gin to 10ml dry vermouth (6:1). If you prefer it drier, dial back the vermouth. Want more balance? Try a 3:1 or even a 50/50.
Should I shake or stir?
Stirring is the classic method. It keeps the drink silky and clear. Shaking adds more dilution and a slight cloudiness, but hey, if it’s good enough for Bond…
Can I batch dry martinis for a party?
Yes, but mix, chill, and store them in the fridge. Don’t add ice until you’re ready to serve. Stir each glass over fresh ice before straining.
What kind of glass do I need?
A traditional martini glass or coupe is perfect. Just make sure it’s chilled. A warm glass is the fastest way to ruin a good martini.
Dry Martini Recipe
Ingredients
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60ml Good George Gin
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10ml dry vermouth
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Ice
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Garnish: lemon twist or green olive (optional)
Instructions
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Add gin and vermouth to a mixing glass filled with ice.
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Stir for 20–30 seconds until well chilled.
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Strain into a chilled martini or coupe glass.
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Garnish with a lemon twist or olive.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve in a chilled glass for max refreshment.
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Garnish to match your mood, zesty with lemon or savoury with an olive.
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Best enjoyed in the evening, pre-dinner, or anytime you’re dressing up (or pretending to).
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Pairs perfectly with seafood, salty snacks, or smug satisfaction.
Simple, sharp, and straight to the point, the dry martini is a cocktail for those who like their drinks clean and classic. Get your hands on some quality Good George gin, and give this legend the respect it deserves.
