martinistyle

Martinistyle refers to a popular way of serving cocktails, particularly dry martinis. In this style, the gin or vodka is stirred with dry vermouth and ice, then strained into a chilled martini glass. A garnish, typically an olive or a lemon twist, is then added. The key characteristic of martinistyle is the clear, unclouded appearance of the drink, achieved through the stirring method which chills the ingredients without aerating them excessively, unlike shaking. This method is favored by many cocktail purists who believe it results in a smoother, more refined texture. The origin of the martini cocktail itself is debated, with various stories attributing its creation to different individuals and locations in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. However, the specific "martinistyle" of preparation, emphasizing the stirred and strained technique, has become a standard for this classic beverage, distinguishing it from other preparations that might involve shaking the ingredients. The exact proportions of vermouth to spirit can vary greatly depending on personal preference, leading to variations such as a "wet" martini (more vermouth) or a "dry" martini (less vermouth).