Send questions to: [email protected].

The common misconception here is that gin is the most important ingredient when it comes to making a Martini (please notice I’m not talking about vodka here, because vodka is not an ingredient in a Martini).

In reality, both gin and vermouth are vitally important to making a quality Martini. Most people who make Martinis at home wind up using a good gin and dusting off some old, half-empty bottle of vermouth that degrades the overall caliber of the drink. Vermouth should be stored in a cool dry place, just like wine. Once you open it, keep in the fridge for no more than four weeks. Good vermouth can make all the difference when it comes to drinking a good Martini or a bad one, so take it just as seriously as you would the gin.

Get the latest in beer, wine, and cocktail culture sent straight to your inbox.