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Extra Dirty Martini

A bold, briny twist on the classic martini featuring extra olive brine for rich savory flavor that mellows the spirit and adds complexity.
Prep Time 3 minutes
Total Time 3 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Cocktail
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Drink
  • 2 ounces premium gin or vodka
  • 0.5 ounce dry vermouth
  • 1 ounce olive brine from a quality olive jar
  • 3 to 4 green olives for garnish
  • Ice cubes preferably large, fresh ice
  • Lemon peel optional, for twist

Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker or mixing glass
  • Bar spoon or long stirring spoon
  • Jigger
  • Strainer (Hawthorne or julep)
  • Coupe glass or martini glass
  • Paring knife

Method
 

  1. Chill a coupe or martini glass by filling it with ice water for at least 1 minute, then discard the water.
  2. Fill a cocktail shaker or mixing glass three-quarters full with fresh ice cubes.
  3. Measure and pour 2 ounces of gin or vodka into the shaker using a jigger.
  4. Add 0.5 ounce of dry vermouth to the shaker.
  5. Measure and add 1 ounce of olive brine, giving the cocktail its "extra dirty" character.
  6. Stir smoothly for 15–20 seconds, or shake vigorously for about 10 seconds if you prefer a shaken martini.
  7. Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass, using a strainer to hold back the ice.
  8. Garnish by spearing 3 to 4 green olives on a cocktail pick and resting it on the rim.
  9. Optional: twist a strip of lemon peel over the drink to express the oils, then drop it in or discard.

Notes

For the coldest, least diluted martini, store your gin or vodka and dry vermouth in the freezer for at least an hour before mixing.