Think You Know the Perfect Martini? Think Again.

Think James Bond knew best with his "shaken, not stirred"? While the suave secret agent certainly had his preferences, the science (and the sheer deliciousness) of a truly exceptional Gin Martini leans firmly towards stirring. Get ready to discover the art of this iconic cocktail, the way it was meant to be made – smooth, sophisticated, and utterly divine.

For a drink as minimalist as the Martini, the quality of your ingredients is paramount. Cheap gin will yield a cheap-tasting result, a harshness that no amount of shaking can smooth out. That's why we reach for our very own Gin 17•09. Crafted with care, the inclusion of sarsaparilla root lends it a remarkable smoothness, while a hint of orange peel adds a bright, zesty lift. It's a gin built for a Martini.

And the vermouth? This isn't just a fleeting whisper over the glass. We believe in the subtle yet crucial role of a good dry vermouth. Dolin Dry brings a herbal sophistication that perfectly complements the clean profile of our Gin 17•09, adding layers of complexity without overpowering.

Forget the vigorous shaking that can bruise the gin and over-dilute the drink. The key to a perfect Martini is gentle stirring. This allows the ingredients to meld harmoniously while achieving the ideal level of chill and dilution without clouding the spirit.

Ready to elevate your Martini game? Here's our go-to recipe for a truly exceptional Gin Martini:

The Three Counties Perfect Gin Martini

Ingredients:

• 87.5ml (3 oz) Gin 17•09
• 12.5ml (0.4 oz) Dolin Dry Vermouth
• Ice (good quality, large cubes preferred)
• Garnish of your choice (we recommend a twist of orange peel)

Instructions:

1. Chill Your Glass: Start by chilling your Martini glass (a Nick & Nora or coupe glass works beautifully). You can do this by filling it with ice or placing it in the freezer for a few minutes.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing glass filled with ice, pour in the Gin 17•09 and the Dolin Dry Vermouth.
3. Stir Gently: Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture gently for approximately 20-30 seconds. The goal is to chill and slightly dilute the drink without creating excessive aeration. Imagine you're trying to gently fold the liquid over the ice.
4. Strain: Empty the ice from your chilled glass and strain the Martini mixture into it.
5. Garnish: Express the oils from an orange peel over the surface of the drink by twisting it over the glass, then drop it into the Martini. Alternatively, you can use a lemon twist or an olive, depending on your preference.

There you have it – a classic Gin Martini, stirred to perfection, showcasing the quality of the ingredients and the subtle art of balance. Ditch the shake, embrace the stir, and prepare for a Martini that's smooth, sophisticated, and utterly divine. You're welcome. Now go forth and Martini like you mean it.