The Story Behind The Martinez
The Martinez is a classic variation on the Manhattan and a precursor to the Martini. Though its origins are unclear, a popular story insists that 19th-century bartender and author Jerry Thomas first mixed the drink for a customer passing through the city of Martinez, Calif.
Whatever may have inspired the cocktail’s first concoction, the first written records of the Martinez can be found in O.H. Byron’s “The Modern Bartender’s Guide.” Published in 1884, the only instructions read, “Same as Manhattan, only you substitute gin for whisky.”
Three years later, Thomas’s “The Bar-tender’s Guide” came out with its own recipe for the Martinez, which is more similar to the one we know today. That is, equal parts gin and sweet vermouth with the addition of Angostura bitters and Maraschino liqueur. Garnish with a lemon twist, and enjoy the best parts that the Manhattan and Martini have to offer, all in one glass.
Related Reads & Recipes
Learn About Gin
More Gin Recipes To Explore
The Michael, a Take on the Martini:
This is a slightly easier, less dry cousin of the Martini. A balance of gin, vermouth, Aperol, and bitters creates a nice citrus cocktail.
The Gin And Tonic Sorbet Recipe:
This blended mix of gin, tonic, and your favorite sorbet is an easy, boozy warm weather treat that scales perfectly for parties.
The Mimi Recipe:
The Mimi, from Leslie Kirchhoff's "Disco Cube Cocktails," is made with gin and fino sherry, shaken with ice, lemon juice, and a special simple syrup.
Gibson:
Get our recipe for a great Gibson. Learn everything you need to know to make a perfect Gibson.
The Bolder Bramble Recipe:
Made with aromatic bitters and navy strength gin, this is an unusually tasty version of the traditional Bramble cocktail. Learn how to make it with this recipe!
The Eastside:
The Eastside is a shaken combination of gin, lime juice, simple syrup, muddled cucumber, and mint. Check out the recipe here!
