The classic Martini, to me, is unbeatable—just gin (or vodka), vermouth, and an olive or a lemon zest for garnish. Simple yet timeless. The beauty of the Martini lies in its endless room for experimentation, beginning with three main types: the dry Martini, the dirty Martini, and the Perfect Martini.
What makes the Martini so exciting is this freedom to experiment. Over the years, I’ve explored countless variations, each small tweak transforming the drink into something entirely new. A dash of olive brine turns it into a dirty Martini, giving it a savory, briny edge. Swap the olive for a pickled onion, and you have a Gibson—a completely different vibe. It’s amazing how these small changes create entirely new experiences.
That’s the beauty of the Martini. You can experiment with subtle shifts in flavor and presentation, and the journey is as enjoyable as the drink itself. There are so many popular variations, riffs, and styles to try, and I encourage you to explore them all at your own pace. It could take months—or even years—to find your favorite, but the fun is in the discovery. And if you’re looking for the perfect excuse to dive in, mark your calendar for National Martini Day on June 19.
If you stumble upon a new favorite—or invent your twist—please share it. I love hearing what others enjoy, so let’s keep the Martini conversation going!
Here are some fantastic types of Martini to get you started.
How to Serve a Martini?
A classic Martini is typically served “straight up,” meaning it’s stirred or shaken with ice and then strained into a chilled Martini glass without ice.
However, Martinis can also be served “on the rocks,” poured over fresh ice in a lowball glass, which keeps the drink colder for longer but adds a touch more dilution. Some variations may be “shaken” for a frothier texture or “with a twist,” garnished with a lemon peel for added zest.
With so many options and unique terminology around Martinis, we’ve put together Different Options to Order a Martini at a Bar to guide you through every choice.
List of the 26 Best Martinis (with Recipes)
We handpicked the best variations. Each has its own page, complete with simple recipes, printable cards, and video tutorials that make mixology easy and enjoyable.
The Dry Martini combines simplicity with a touch of class. It highlights the main spirit clean flavors with just a hint of dry vermouth. Serve it ice-cold and garnish with a lemon twist or an olive. This drink delivers pure, classic flavor without the frills.
Regarding the main spirit, the two main variations on the Dry Martini are the Gin Dry Martini and the Vodkatini:
The Gin Dry Martini
The Gin Martini brings gin to center stage, stirred to keep that smooth, refined taste. A whisper of vermouth adds depth, while an olive or lemon twist provides the perfect garnish. This Martini suits gin lovers who enjoy the clean, botanical essence of the spirit as well as a dry and potent drink.
The Vodka Dry Martini (Or Vodkatini)
Smooth and icy, the Vodka Martini lets the vodka’s subtle notes shine through. By swapping gin for vodka, this cocktail achieves a crisp, modern twist. A dash of dry vermouth and your choice of garnish—lemon twist or olive—complete this refreshing and timeless classic.
The Difference between a “Dry” and an “Extra Dry” Martini
The Dry Martini can either be served “dry” or “extra dry”. While a regular Dry Martini includes gin or vodka and a touch of dry vermouth (usually around ⅓ oz), the Extra Dry Martini is a bit different in the sense that the dry vermouth is used to rinse the stirring glass and does not actually makes it into the drink itself: to make an extra dry martini, fill a stirring glass with ice cubes and pour a dash of dry vermouth over it. Stir well to coat the ice cubes and the inside of the stirring glass and then use a cocktail strainer to discard the vermouth and excess water in the stirring glass.Once you’re left only with vermouth flavored ice-cubes in the stirring glass, pour over your spirit of choice, add more ice cubes if necessary, stir well and serve with the garnish of your choice.
Now that we know a bit more about the mother of them all, the classic Dry Martini, let’s dive into some classic twist on this recipe. Let’s start with the drier ones, generally prepared using a stirring glass and closer to the original version:
Dirty Martini
At the top of the list for Martini lovers who like a little extra brine, the Dirty Martini delivers! This twist on the classic mixes gin or vodka with olive brine for a savory edge that’s deliciously smooth. It’s strong, salty, and oh-so-satisfying with a couple of olives to complete the look. Simple yet bold, this one’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Gibson
A unique twist on the classic Martini, the Gibson is known for its savory garnish—a pickled onion. Made with gin (or vodka) and dry vermouth, the Gibson has the same crisp, smooth profile as a traditional Martini but adds a subtle bite from the onion garnish. It’s clean, refreshing, and just a bit different, perfect for those who like their Martinis with a hint of savory flair.
Pickle Martini
The Pickle Martini brings a briny twist for those who crave something savory! This variation on the classic uses pickle brine for an extra tangy kick, making it a fun and unexpected choice for adventurous sippers. It’s salty, bold, and perfect for anyone who can’t get enough of that pickle flavor.
Vesper Martini
The Vesper Martini brings together gin, vodka, and a splash of Lillet for a cocktail with sophistication and strength. Created by Ian Flemning for his character James Bond, the Vesper is “shaken, not stirred”, and served with a lemon zest. The blend of gin and vodka gives it a unique character, with the Lillet adding a light, floral touch to this otherwise bold and dry cocktail.
Dukes Martini
Known for its strength and simplicity, the Dukes Martini is a no-nonsense classic. Named after London’s famous Dukes Bar, this Martini skips both the shaker and the mixing glass, pouring ice-cold gin directly into a frozen glass that has been coated with a touch of vermouth. With just a twist of lemon peel, it’s a pure, strong, and perfect drink for those who love Martinis in their purest form. Just keep in mind that this cocktail is basically just pure, ice-cold gin with no dilution added, so enjoy with moderation!
Martinez
The Martinez is a must-try for anyone curious about the Martini’s roots. This cocktail combines gin with sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and a dash of orange bitters, resulting in a richly layered, slightly sweet drink. Often considered the precursor to the Martini, the Martinez has a sophisticated, old-fashioned charm with a touch of fruitiness and spice, making it perfect for fans of classic cocktails.
Sweet Martini
If you like your Martinis with a bit more flavor, the Sweet Martini brings a touch of sweetness to the classic recipe. Mixing gin or vodka with sweet vermouth, it’s smooth and slightly richer, with a complexity that’s easy to sip.
Perfect Martini
The Perfect Martini strikes a balance for those who can’t decide between sweet and dry vermouth! This cocktail combines gin (or vodka) with equal parts sweet and dry vermouth for a well-rounded, smooth taste, add a dash of orange bitters and an orange or lemon peel for garnish. It’s a Martini with a touch of sweetness, yet it stays classy and crisp.
50/50 Martini
The 50/50 Martini perfectly balances gin and dry vermouth, creating a lighter, smoother take on the classic version. This drink is for those who like a bit of harmony in their cocktail, with the botanical notes of gin perfectly complemented by vermouth’s subtle sweetness. Simple, yet sophisticated, the 50/50 Martini is as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Mezcal Martini
Ready for a Martini with a smoky twist? The Mezcal Martini swaps gin or vodka for mezcal, bringing in earthy, smoky flavors that add depth and character. Just like a Dirty Martini, it includes a bit of olive brine, which flavors and added salt match and enhance the natural umami and savory flavors in the Mezcal. This cocktail is bold and unforgettable, with the mezcal’s unique taste front and center. To be experimented with all your favorite Mezcals!
After reading this first section, I anticipate some of you thinking “wait, aren’t all these Martini extremely strong and dry? Where are the fruity Martinis?”
Well here they are, in the second section of this article. The reason why I choose to separate them is that, despite the name they share, cocktails such as a French Martini or an Espresso Martini are technically not Martinis: they don’t include vermouth, most of them call for liqueur or even fruit juice, they’re made using a shaker rather than a stirring glass… Then, why are they called a Martini too? The most plausible explanation is that, just like a Dry Martini, they are vodka short drinks, served neat into… a Martini glass!
Let’s now dive into the vast family of shaken Martini cocktails:
Espresso Martini
For coffee lovers craving a cocktail with an extra buzz, the Espresso Martini offers rich, velvety flavor. Vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur blend to create a drink that satisfies both the caffeine and cocktail cravings. If you’re looking for something a little bit different, try a rum Espresso Martini or even a Mezcal Espresso Martini! In this twist on the Espresso Martini, smoky mezcal meets bold espresso and coffee liqueur for a cocktail that’s as rich as it is complex. It’s earthy, smooth, and has that energizing kick of coffee flavor with an unforgettable mezcal edge.
Pornstar Martini
Looking for a cocktail with a tropical twist? The Pornstar Martini brings passion fruit and vanilla vodka together in a burst of fruity flavor that’s just sweet enough. Served with a side of Prosecco, this drink hits all the right notes: smooth, exotic, and irresistibly fun. It’s a showstopper and party starter all in one glass!
Apple Martini
The Apple Martini (or Appletini) brings a bright, crisp taste to the cocktail lineup! With flavors of fresh green apple mixed with vodka, it’s tangy, tart, and a little bit sweet—the perfect balance.
French Martini
Say bonjour to the French Martini! This chic cocktail combines vodka (why not French vodka such as Grey Goose, so you can stay in the theme), Chambord (raspberry liqueur), and pineapple juice to create a smooth, fruity drink that’s both elegant and easy to enjoy. With a beautiful pink hue and a balanced taste, it brings a touch of French flair to the table.
Lemon Drop Martini
Bright, tart, and a touch sweet, the Lemon Drop Martini shines as a refreshing crowd favorite. Vodka, fresh lemon juice, Triple Sec and a hint of sugar come together for a drink that’s like liquid sunshine. Finished with a sugared rim, it’s zesty and playful—a perfect pick-me-up that’s almost too easy to sip!
Lychee Martini
Add a dash of the exotic to your night with the Lychee Martini! This drink combines the sweet, floral notes of lychee with vodka for a light, refreshing, and unique cocktail. The fruitiness doesn’t overwhelm; instead, it pairs perfectly with the smoothness of the vodka. A quick mix and it’s ready to serve; you’ll just need some vodka, lychee liqueur and/or juice, and a touch of dry vermouth.
Elderflower Martini
Ready for a floral escape? The Elderflower Martini combines vodka, elderflower liqueur and a touch of lemon juice to create a delicate, fragrant cocktail that feels effortlessly elegant. It’s light and subtly sweet, with the floral notes of elderflower taking center stage. This cocktail is a perfect choice for spring evenings.
Baileys Martini
Creamy, smooth, and deliciously decadent, the Baileys Martini is a dessert and cocktail all in one! Baileys Irish Cream and vodka blend into a silky drink that tastes like a treat. This Martini comes together in seconds and balances creaminess and spirit.
Pomegranate Martini
Looking for something bright and fruity? The Pomegranate Martini delivers a burst of tart, juicy flavor! Citron vodka, pomegranate juice and Triple Sec combine to create a vibrant red cocktail with just the right amount of sweetness. It’s refreshing and eye-catching—perfect for impressing guests or adding a pop of color to any gathering.
Chocolate Martini
Dessert lovers, meet your dream cocktail! The Chocolate Martini blends vodka with chocolate liqueur and cream for a creamy, decadent treat. It’s like dessert in a glass, with a rich, smooth chocolate flavor that’s indulgent yet easy to make. Shake it up with ice, pour, and prepare to enjoy a cocktail that’s a perfect after-dinner delight.
Pumpkin Martini
Top of the list for cozy vibes, the Pumpkin Martini brings the warmth of fall flavors into your glass! This autumn-inspired cocktail mixes vanilla vodka with pumpkin spice liqueur & Irish Cream, giving you the perfect creamy, spicy, and sweet blend. It’s like pumpkin pie in a glass—ideal for kicking off the holiday season or adding a bit of seasonal cheer to any gathering!
Christmas Martini
The Christmas Martini is all about festive flavor! With hints of cranberry, a touch of orange, and a hint of spice, this cocktail brings holiday magic to any gathering. It’s vibrant, merry, and perfect for the season. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary or a few fresh cranberries, and you’ve got a drink that’s as fun as it is festive.
Lavender Martini
Light, floral, and a bit dreamy, the Lavender Martini takes you on a gentle escape. This Martini combines gin or vodka with lavender syrup, creating an aromatic and refreshing drink without being overpowering. A hint of lemon balances out the sweetness, making this a perfect choice when you’re in the mood for something elegant and calming.
Banana Split Martini
Dessert fans, meet the Banana Split Martini! This fun, indulgent cocktail combines vodka, banana liqueur, cacao liqueur and a touch of cream for a drink about the treat. It’s creamy, sweet, and has all the nostalgic flavors of a banana split. Top with whipped cream, a cherry or a touch of cacao powder, and it’s like dessert and a drink all in one!
Brands We Love to Use for Martini Cocktails
When making a stellar Martini, we know from experience that the right brands make all the difference.
For our gin Martinis, it depends on the flavor we want to achieve: for dry, botanical Martinis, we always reach for Tanqueray 10 or London nº3. For more floral notes, Hendrick’s or Roku are perfect options, but feel free to experiment with your favorite types and brands of gin.
And for vodka, you can’t go wrong with Grey Goose, Belvedere, or Ketel One—they each offer a smooth, crisp finish that elevates a vodka Martini beautifully.
In both cases, vermouth is just as essential, and we’ve found Noilly Prat or Dolin dry vermouth and Carpano Antica Formula sweet vermouth create that balance.
For more types and variations of classic drinks: Go to Types of Margaritas – Negroni Variations – Old Fashioned Variations
FAQs
How does the alcohol-to-vermouth ratio affect the flavor of a Martini?
The ratio influences how strong or smooth the drink tastes. A higher vermouth content (like in a “wet” Martini) softens the alcohol intensity, while a low vermouth ratio (in a “dry” Martini) allows the base spirit to dominate.
Are there any non-alcoholic or low-ABV Martini options?
Yes! Mocktail Martinis made with non-alcoholic spirits or vermouth alternatives are increasingly popular. Reverse Martinis—where the usual gin-to-vermouth ratio is flipped to highlight more vermouth—and low-ABV options with fortified wine or aromatized wine also make excellent choices.
How many types of Martinis are there?
There’s no set number, as Martinis are endlessly versatile! Modern mixology has introduced dozens of variations, and new types keep emerging,
What are the most common garnishes used in Martinis?
Common garnishes include olives, lemon twists, and cocktail onions. Olives add a salty, savory element, a lemon twist adds citrus brightness and onions (in a Gibson) provide a mild sweetness with a savory edge.
What’s the difference between a wet Martini and a dry Martini?
A “wet” Martini has more vermouth for a smoother taste, while a “dry” Martini uses less vermouth for a stronger, spirit-forward flavor.
Is it better to shake or stir a Martini, and why?
Generally, stirring is preferred for Martinis as it produces a smoother texture and less dilution. Shaking creates a slightly cloudier appearance and more dilution, which can be desirable for vodka Martinis or Vesper Martinis.
What’s the best type of glasses for serving a Martini?
The classic Martini glass with a conical shape and long stem is ideal. It keeps the drink cold, prevents heat transfer from your hands, and enhances the cocktail’s presentation.
What are the best ways to chill a Martini glass, and does it matter?
Chilling a glass helps keep the drink icy cold. Fill the glass with crushed ice (or ice cubes and water) while you prepare the cocktail, or store the glasses in the freezer.
How long can a premade Martini be stored, and does it affect the flavor?
A premade Dry Martini can be stored in the fridge or freezer for up to 6 months. If you’re going for a twist such as a Pornstar Martini or a Lavender Martini, the presence of fruit juices in the cocktails will reduce its shelf life: in the fridge, these kinds of cocktails can be stored for up to 48h. Always remember to smell and taste a small quantity before pouring to ensure it is still safe to drink.
What are some popular seasonal Martinis?
Seasonal Martinis include flavors like pumpkin spice or cranberry for fall (Pumpkin Martini), chocolate and cream for winter (Baileys or Chocolate Martini), and floral or citrusy flavors for spring and summer (Elderflower Martini, Pomegranate Martini). Using fresh, seasonal ingredients can enhance the drink’s appeal and provide a fitting flavor profile for the time of year.
Are there pre-mixed Martinis on the market?
Although we always recommend making your own or ordering fresh Martinis in a bar, yes they do exist! Popular brands include NIO Cocktails and Mix of Total Happiness, but there are many small-businesses, local alternatives available in most regions and countries.
