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.
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