Mixology Class: The Martini (Evolution, Myth & Mystique)

The Martini is perennially one of the most popular cocktails, and it has managed to evolve and survive since the 1890’s. But it is also one of the most misunderstood cocktails, and the one most likely to go wrong. For good or ill, everyone has their own version of how a Martini should be made.

We are going to go back to the beginning and explore its predecessors, such as the Martinez and its parallel twin, the Manhattan. We will look at how it has changed with the zeitgeist over the years, from its inception as a Vermouth-heavy Gin drink with bitters, to its current conception as a Vodka and/or Gin drink with a touch of vermouth and no bitters, often supplemented by olive brine.

Together, we will make three Martini variants that showcase exactly how versatile this cocktail can be. Furthermore, we will advise on how to make your perfect Martini at home and how to use correct industry terms to order your version of the perfect Martini at any bar. I will also walk you through the five questions I train all bartenders to ask as soon as the word “Martini” is spoken, and the steps we take to make the best ones we possibly can.

Lastly, we will contextualize the James Bond fallacy and put it to bed - forever. There’s a good chance Chef Katie will be whipping up some delicious and savory olive-centric hors d’oeuvres for this one!

This month's skill-building class will take place at Little Gem on Tuesday, June 16, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Spaces will be limited to 16 seats total, so be sure to reserve yours today! Standard tickets are available at $75 (includes plated snacks from Beau Catering, three cocktails, and recipe cards for each cocktail so you can make them at home). Hope to see you there!

Can't make it? Save the dates for our upcoming classes:

Tuesday, 7/21: Agava & Tequila Time!

Tuesday, 8/18: Tiki Classics

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