Did you know that in addition to being Father’s Day, June 19th is National Martini Day? What better combo could you possibly ask for? If you’re a martini lover, you’ve probably always wondered where this delicious (and very strong) drink originated…because I certainly have! Here’s what NPR had to say:
“The history of the martini is a murky one. As is the case with many alcoholic concoctions through time, things weren’t always written down, and memories got fuzzy from drinking a few of them.
Many historians follow the martini back to a miner who struck gold in California during the Gold Rush. The story goes that a miner walked into a bar and asked for a special drink to celebrate his new fortune. The bartender threw together what he had on hand — fortified wine (vermouth) and gin, and a few other goodies — and called it a Martinez, after the town in which the bar was located.”
(You can read the full article here)
And, while the rest might be history, knowing how to make the perfect classic martini is essential for any host or hostess out there. Here’s how to impress your guests with a drink that will knock their socks off.
Recipe via Food Network
Ingredients:
- 3 .5 oz vodka or gin
- .5 oz dry vermouth
- Olive or lemon twist for garnish
Directions: Pour ice, vodka and vermouth into a glass shaker. Shake and pour into a martini glass. Garnish with olives or lemon twist.
Are you a martini drinker? What’s your favorite way to prepare?