The cocktail notebook · Gin
Martinez
Sweet vermouth, gin and maraschino. A advanced comparison study made by stir and strain.
- Base
- London dry gin
- Method
- Stir & Strain
- Glass
- Cocktail coupe
- Yield
- One drink
Recipe reference: IBA reference recipe. House calibrates the reference bar spoon at 5 ml.

Martinez recipe
1 serving · IBA reference recipeMillilitres control this recipe. US fluid ounces are rounded to the nearest quarter ounce for convenience and are not a different recipe ratio. Dashes, spoons, leaves and other non-liquid measures are listed as written.
| Measure | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 45 ml≈ 1.5 US fl oz | London dry gin |
| 45 ml≈ 1.5 US fl oz | sweet red vermouth |
| 5 ml≈ 0.25 US fl oz | Luxardo maraschino liqueur, calibrated house bar spoon |
| 2 dashes | orange bitters |
Ice: Preparation ice only; no serving ice. Garnish: 1 lemon zest.
Learning bar service? Continue with the Martinez in module 1 of the free course →
How to make it
- Chill the serving glass and prepare clean mixing equipment.
- Measure all recipe ingredients into a mixing glass with fresh ice.
- Stir smoothly to combine, chill and control dilution; check the venue’s observed target.
- Strain into the chilled serving glass and apply the specified garnish.
Why it works: This modern reference uses London dry gin and equal gin/vermouth. Historical versions differ; specify the version rather than assuming the name fixes all details.
Common mistakes, useful fixes
Unrecorded substitution
Explain the reference and confirm an approved Old Tom variation if available.
Inconsistent finish
check the exact measures, products and preparation sequence.
Unclear guest expectation
explain this specification before preparing.
Serving the guest
What to tell the guest
Sweet vermouth, gin and maraschino. Explain the reference and confirm an approved Old Tom variation if available.
Dietary and product checks
Check all exact product labels and relevant guest restrictions; no generic recipe guarantees safety.
Variations
- Any variant must be named and recorded. Explain the reference and confirm an approved Old Tom variation if available.
Where does the Martinez come from?
Origin: Origin not yet verified in this edition. (Origin not yet verified in this edition)
The cited IBA page establishes this modern reference recipe, not a definitive country, inventor or date. This lesson keeps those historical questions open rather than repeating an unsupported origin tale. Its learning purpose is specific: This modern reference uses London dry gin and equal gin/vermouth. Historical versions differ; specify the version rather than assuming the name fixes all details.
Martinez questions
What is the key decision in this study?
This modern reference uses London dry gin and equal gin/vermouth. Historical versions differ; specify the version rather than assuming the name fixes all details.
The guest expects Old Tom gin.
Explain the reference and confirm an approved Old Tom variation if available.
From a recipe to a repeatable skill
Learn the method behind the order.
Martinez is a required study in Advanced Cocktails & Refined Bar Service, module 1: Spirit and vermouth selection. Compare vermouth-led structure and gin styles with the foundation Martini.
The course is free. An optional paid certificate tests knowledge in an online exam; it is not an observed practical assessment or an accredited bartending qualification.
