If you follow me on Twitter, you may have noticed my tweets toasting World Martini Day, celebrated every year on June 19th. But do we really need a reason to indulge in a martini? Just thinking out loud here.
Courtesy of Belvedere Vodka, the original and true expression of luxury vodka, I channeled my inner Bond and created a classic dry martini. But for all my savvy and sophistication, I know very little about martini culture – except to only accept one from a stranger at a bar.
(I’ve done the morning-after walk of shame after accepting two – I won’t be repeating that any time soon!)
So, what exactly is a vodka martini? A vodka martini is a cocktail containing unequal portions of vodka and dry vermouth (somewhere in a ratio of about 2:1) served chilled, in a conical stemmed glass, garnished with either a green olive or a lemon twist.
Shaken or stirred? Well, here are the facts. Shaking cools a drink more quickly, but is more likely to chip small shards off the ice, some of which will make their way into the drink, no matter how carefully one strains and pours. Which may be part of the reason why some people prefer their martini stirred. At the end of the day, neither option is better – it’s simply what you prefer.
Though it’s decidedly cooler to say #BelvedereShaken.
What’s the big deal about vodka? Premium vodka, specifically the iconic Belvedere brand, is created exclusively from Polish Dankowskie Rye and quadruple-distilled to create the perfect balance of character and purity. It is completely free of additives and is sourced from purified water from Belvedere’s own artisan wells.
Tell me more! Okay, here’s what you can expect. According to Belvedere, to start, the nose will detect light notes of vanilla, along with the gentle characteristics of the softest cream. The palate will be invigorated with a naturally smooth, rich, velvety texture swaying between sweet and savory – with a hint of black pepper and spice. The long, luxurious finish is simply beautiful, with notes of almond, clotted cream, and faint characteristics of Brazil nut.
I’ll admit it; the dry martini was served to my husband, who appreciates the refined sophistication and pureness on the palette. But I’m a girly girl! Yes, I was the one ordering a Fuzzy Navel at the bar in my early 20’s. (I later graduated to Sex on the Beach and then G&T, but I’ll forever prefer my drinks to taste like candy.) Hence, you can bet that that my martini was more of a Killer Kool-Aid.
Special thanks to Belvedere Vodka for helping us celebrate World Martini Day. So, what are your plans for the weekend? Perhaps they include a martini or two? (If so, I’m only an e-mail away!) Enjoy the summer, friends!
My go to brand of vodka is Belvedere or Grey Goose. Great article!
Thanks Maggie! Cheers!
I love a good martini! I remember my aunt came up from L.A. once and we went out for drinks. She was so pissed off with our “tiny” martinis. I guess in L.A. martinis are a lot bigger lol
Have a great summer Lena and family!
Large martinis in LA? I think I need to take a road trip! Same to you Anne!
I don’t believe I’ve tried a martini
What?? This is scandalous in so many ways!
there are so many fabulous ways to mix a martini hard to chose whats best
It’s true!!
That is one fancy martini shaker set!
Hahaha it’s pretty awesome :)
I have a bridal shower on sunday I seem to be on the road all weekend long drives. Ive never had a martini I dont think Id like it not a fan of vodka
Maybe go easy on the vodka.. they’re really delish!
Or try a sweet one to start – like watermelon!
Didn’t know there was such thing as a World Martini Day!
Of course there is! LOL
I would love a martini right now! It’s Friday night!
I hear that!
World martini day?! I’m in!!!!
Hahaha remember to celebrate next year!
I’ve never had a martini. BYW… I like that carrying case.
So do I – it’s beautiful!
nice bottle, bet the contents taste good ;-)
this weekend we are having friends over for a visit :-)
Perfect time for a martini!
Love that martini set you have. Don’t worry, I won’t be tempted to scoop it (I don’t drink).
I did enjoy reading the difference between “shaken” and “stirred” though – I have always wondered since the James Bond movies LOL
LOL well there you go!
I never had a vodka martini before
You must try them :)
love the fancy case it came in
Me too!
I have to admit that I also like my drinks sweet so I am not much of a martini girl but my hubby loves them.
I like sweet martinis :)
I don’t think I had a Martini. I will be vacationing for a few days with my daughter this summer, so I think when we go to eat I will order myself one.
Please do! Enjoy!
I had a friend who swore by Finlandia vodka. I’ve come to learn that it wasn’t as premium as he made it out to be.
Hahaha I think Belvedere is the way to go :)
I love Vodka Martinis
Awesome! Me too!
I’m not a big fan of martini’s, unfortunately, but I do love belvedere!
That’s awesome!
Not a fan of Martini’s but will have to try Belvedere out in other drinks.
Please do Judy!
I’m not a big drinker, but I love a dirty Martini!
Sometimes they just hit the spot!
I am all about the vodka. Can’t wait to mix it up this summer with a wide range of cocktails.
Woo hoo Melinda!
I have a new found love for martinis
Love to hear that!
I have never ever tried a Martini, but I am sure I would like it sweet too. Anything too dry is not my cup of ….vodka? I have never tried Belvedere, but it is now on my list.
Happy that it is! Please try it!
I had a Martini once and it was way to strong , i need one made by a pro … i think i would like it much better seems like a great drink :)
Yup, it has to be made just right!
I know it must be a sin….I’ve never tried a martini !!! Honestly what’s up with that?
Got to try the Vodka martini and damn i didn’t know what i was missing..so tasty!
I love vodka especially in my ceasars