Espresso martinis are a classic cocktail that has taken the world by storm recently. Made with a combination of espresso, vodka, and liqueur, these drinks are perfect for those who love the taste of coffee and the kick of alcohol. In this blog post, we'll delve deeper into the history and origins of the espresso martini, explore the different variations of the drink, and provide some tips and tricks for making the perfect one at home.
The origins of the espresso martini can be traced back to the 1980s, when a bartender in London named Dick Bradsell was asked to make a drink that would "wake me up and then f* me up." Bradsell took this request to heart and created the espresso martini, which quickly became a popular drink at his bar. From there, the cocktail spread around the world and can now be found on the menu of many bars and restaurants.
The traditional recipe for an espresso martini is simple and straightforward. It typically includes 2 oz of vodka, 1 oz of espresso or strong coffee like our Bartender's Original Blend, and 1/2 oz of coffee liqueur. The ingredients are combined in a shaker with ice, shaken vigorously for 10-15 seconds, and then strained into a chilled martini glass. The drink is often garnished with a coffee bean (or three).
Many variations of the espresso martini have been created over the years, each with its unique twist. Some popular variations include:
The White Russian Espresso Martini: This variation adds a splash of cream to the traditional recipe, giving the drink a more rich and creamier texture.
The Irish Espresso Martini: This variation replaces the vodka with Irish whiskey and adds a splash of Baileys Irish Cream to the recipe.
The Nutella Espresso Martini: This variation adds a spoonful of Nutella to the traditional recipe, giving the drink a delicious chocolate-hazelnut flavor.
The Caramel Espresso Martini: This variation adds a spoonful of caramel sauce to the traditional recipe, giving the drink a sweet and indulgent flavor.
One of the keys to making the perfect espresso martini is to use freshly brewed espresso. The taste of the espresso will significantly affect the final drink, and the fresher, the better. We suggest our Bartender's Coffee: Original Blend which was created specifically for espresso martini's and coffee-based cocktails.
Additionally, it's ideal to use cold ingredients, so make sure the vodka, liqueur, and shaker are chilled before you start.
Another important tip is to use the correct type of vodka. While any vodka can be used in an espresso martini, it's best to use a high-quality, neutral-flavored vodka. This will ensure that the vodka does not overpower the espresso taste.
When it comes to liqueur, the options are endless. Even a flavored liqueur like vanilla or chocolate. This will give your espresso martini a unique twist and make it stand out from the rest.
For an extra touch of elegance, you can also add a small amount of chocolate or caramel sauce on the rim of the glass for a delicious and visually appealing drink.
Espresso martinis are an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it's a night out with friends or a special occasion. They are simple to make and can be tailored to your personal taste. So next time you're looking for a pick-me-up, give the espresso martini a try and see what you think!