Martini Chat - Martini Recipes & Cocktail Culture

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Linda

Evolution of the martini...

Martinis have been around for a long time but no one really knows exactly how they come into being or who really created the first martini. There are people who claim to have created the martini but the recipes that they used are not the recipe that is used to make traditional martinis. In 1862 there was a similar drink called the Martinez. It is thought that the Martinez gradually became the martini of today. The evolution of the martini cocktail had begun.

Several substitutions transformed the old Martinez. The gin that was used in the Martinez was replaced with a dry gin. The aromatic bitters that were a part of the older mix were replaced with orange bitters. The sweeter red Vermouth that was originally used began to be replaces with a drier white version. This evolution of the martini cocktail recipe began to be mixed as equal parts of the Gin and Vermouth.  The original Martinez had a cherry as a garnish but that was eventually replace in the new version with the olive or cocktail onion.

 There are other stories that make the claim for the martini. One such story occurs in a saloon that is in Martinez California. This story claims that the bar owner made the drink, put an olive in it and named it after the town. Another story claims that the martini was named after a rifle that was used by the British army. This rifle was called a Martini and Henry rifle. Another popular story occurred at the Knickerbocker Hotel. The bartender at this New York hotel had the first name of Martini. He is credited for creating the drink that many visitors started requesting. The evolution of the martini cocktail continued from there.

Wherever the martini came from, it is making a comeback today. Even though the recipe was different in the beginning, new recipes abound. The evolution of the martini cocktail is evident in the popularity that they are now enjoying. Martini bars are popping up everywhere. The traditional recipe will still be around, but now it seems that anything goes as far as the martini is concerned.  Basically anything that you can put in a martini glass will be considered a martini. The important thing about a martini is its mystique. This posh flirty drink will always be a favorite at any party. Whether it is shaken or stirred the martini of the past, present or future will be enjoyed.

Setting up a home bar...know the basics

Many people like the idea of setting up a home bar. Having your own home bar is helpful if you do a lot of entertaining. People love the relaxing and casual setting of having a bar at home. This is also a more private setting so if you have a little too much to drink, you don’t have to worry about driving. You can buy a pre made bar or make one yourself. Whatever you decide to do, there are several good things to remember when setting up your bar.

It is important to choose the best location when setting up a home bar. You will need at least 4 or 5 square feet and it should be in a place where you do most of your entertaining. You may want to decide if it will be a permanent or more portable type of bar. You may want to add a sink or refrigerator so you will have to plan ahead and decide how much you want to spend. Even a counter with some bar stools and a liqueur cabinet can make a good start. Your bar can be thought of as an investment that adds value to your home.

Setting up a home bar includes stocking it. It is good to know what your friends may enjoy drinking so that you can have that on hand. It is always best to buy good quality alcohol. If you start stocking it with things that you like then you will have a good beginning. If you want to make some good Martinis, then get some Vodka, Vermouth and some olives. Vodka will come in handy for other popular drinks like Screwdrivers also. Once you master a particular drink then it is possible to learn variations on that drink so that you can better utilize your stock.

Whiskey and Bourbon are also bar staples. Rum is a very versatile liqueur also. Tequila and Rum are popular for making Daiquiris and Margaritas. These summer favorites are versatile and delicious. Good bar tools are also necessary. Shakers, jiggers, juicers and glassware are needed. Setting up a home bar can be a fun project. You may want to pick a theme for your bar and decorate around that theme. Above all, make the bar a place where you can relax. This can be your sanctuary. Know the basics and start to build your own home bar.

Wow - it's already the middle of June. 2010 is flying by...but not too fast for us to do a bit of updating. Yesterday we launched a bit of a new look and some streamlining at www.martiniart.com

Stop by a take a look - we welcome your feedback!

The martini has been around a long time, but lately it seems to be making a comeback. Not only has its popularity returned, but it now has a host of flavors and varieties to choose from. Although the basic martini has gin and vodka, the new martini is being offered with unlimited options and creativity. It seems that anything goes with the martini these days and you can get anything from a chocolate to a fruity mix. Whether there is a special occasion, or you just want to have some fun, summer martini parties are the way to add some posh to your party and keep it cool.

Summer martini parties are a good way to stay cool in the summer. Frosted martini glasses and shakers help to keep the drinks icy. It’s a good idea also to keep the gin and vodka in the freezer to help keep it cold. There are also some tasty summer martini recipes that will beat the heat when the temperature is rising. One good recipe to include in your summer party is a Watermelon martini. This includes adding watermelon and some melon liqueur. Another summer favorite is the Key Lime martini. This includes some lime juice and heavy cream. With this martini your friends will be able to visualize themselves in a tropical resort by the ocean. A refreshing martini that has had a resurgence of popularity is the Cosmopolitan. This mixture of cranberry, orange and pomegranate juice is a cool way to spend a summer afternoon.

Your summer martini parties will also benefit from having some decorative martini glasses and decoration. There are colorful exotic martini glasses available and also tiki olive picks. You may not be a millionaire or drive an expensive car, but you can create an atmosphere of luxury by serving martinis at your summer martini parties. Even if you aren’t a martini master, there are good instructions online that can help you master the perfect martini. Friends will surely help you perfect your skills.

Summer martini parties are one great way to relax and have fun. Make sure that you have good quality ingredients to make your martinis the best that they can be. Make your parties the place to be this summer. Serving martinis is one way to take your parties to the next level and create an atmosphere of luxuriant decadence that will thrill your guests and keep them coming back every year.

Hosting a cocktail party

Cocktail parties use to be the rage in the 60s and 70s. They are now making a comeback. Mixed drinks are experiencing a recent resurgence. Cocktail and martini parties are becoming the new social trend. If you haven’t hosted a cocktail party in awhile, you may need a hosts guide to cocktailing. There is a lot of information available to make sure that you have all of the resources it takes to make your cocktail party a success. You can do it yourself or have some professional help. A professional bartender may be helpful to have for the party.

Want to check out the rest of this article at martiniart.com...

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