How to make the perfect Martini cocktail

A cocktail classic and James Bond's favourite

Stirred, not shaken. Dirty or dry? Here's how to make the perfect martini.

Origin: United States, pre-prohibition

The original martini was made with gin, but now vodka is equally common. It should always be stirred, not shaken.

Ingredients

60ml London Dry gin or vodka

30ml dry vermouth Lemon twist or olive

Method

1. Combine the ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice and stir for 25-30 seconds, or until well chilled.

2. Strain into a coupe or martini glass.

3. Garnish with a lemon twist or olive.

Variations

* For a dirty martini, add a splash of olive brine. Garnish with an olive.

* For a very dry martini, use 75ml gin and only 7ml dry vermouth, or omit the vermouth entirely.

* For a perfect martini, use 45ml each gin and dry vermouth.

Dipsologist Adrienne Stillman has tirelessly grilled bartenders from Nairobi to Hong Kong, spending long nights sipping and sampling, to bring you this sumptuous summer favourite.

Spirited: Cocktails from around the world by Adrienne Stillman, Phaidon.