Your Guide to the Martini – Classic Craft, Pure Flavour
The Martini may be one of the most iconic cocktails in the world, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Its minimalist ingredients leave room for interpretation—and personality. Whether you’re new to cocktails or a seasoned spirit lover, this guide will help you decode the options and order (or make) a Martini that speaks to your taste. At Durham Distillery, every spirit is a love letter to craftsmanship—and every martini is a chance to taste that promise.
A Brief History of the Martini
Like many classics in the cocktail canon, the Martini’s origin is a bit of a mystery. Most roads trace back to the Martinez, a 19th-century drink made with Old Tom Gin, sweet vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and bitters—a richer, sweeter version of what we know today. First appearing in print in The Modern Bartender’s Guide in 1884, it reflected the tastes of the time: round, aromatic, and full of character.
Over time, that profile evolved. As palates shifted and dry gins came into fashion, the Martinez gradually became the Martini—sharper, cleaner, and iconic in its simplicity. What remained constant? The Martini has always been a canvas for craftsmanship and personal preference.
At Durham Distillery, we believe every great Martini tells a story—not just of its origins but of the ingredients you choose. Here’s our guide to help you craft (and order) a Martini that reflects your taste, using the spirits we masterfully create right here in Ontario.
How to Order (or Make) a Martini That Suits You
Whether you’re at your favourite cocktail bar or making one at home, here’s how to decode the Martini and make it your own.
Choosing Your Base – Gin or Vodka?
Gin Martini
Herbal, botanical, and layered with complexity. A true classic.
If you’re looking for a refined, balanced base, our London Calling Dry Gin is a standout—crafted with care to highlight bright citrus and subtle spice without overpowering juniper. It’s the gin we built for your Martini glass.A Martini is traditionally made with gin. It’s a spirit-forward cocktail that showcases the complexity of the botanicals and the finesse of the distillation.
Vodka Martini
Smoother and more neutral, with a clean finish and subtle character.
Prefer something cleaner and more neutral? Opt for vodka. Our Patio Lanterns Vodka is naturally distilled for ultra-smoothness—no harsh edges, no additives, just pure spirit. It lets the vermouth and garnish shine while offering a silky, easy-drinking experience.
Martini Style Explained
Dirty Martini
A savoury twist with olive brine—bold and briny.
A splash of olive brine gives this version its name and signature kick. It’s a great choice if you like your cocktails with depth and a bit of salinity. Try it with London Calling Dry Gin for a herbal contrast or Patio Lanterns Vodka for a more brine-forward sip.
Dry Martini
Minimal vermouth for a spirit-forward experience.
“Dry” simply means less vermouth. You’ll taste more of the base spirit—gin or vodka—making this ideal for those who appreciate clarity and precision. A dry Martini with London Calling Dry Gin is our distiller’s go-to.
Wet Martini
More vermouth creates a smoother, rounder cocktail.
Unlike dry, a wet Martini uses more vermouth for a mellower, a slightly sweeter experience. This is a great starting point if you’re easing into the world of spirit-forward cocktails.
Perfect Martini
Equal parts dry and sweet vermouth—balanced and nuanced.
This isn’t about perfection—though you might think so after tasting it. A “perfect” Martini uses equal parts dry and sweet vermouth, creating a nuanced, richer cocktail. Think of it as a bridge between the Martinez and the modern Martini.
Shaken or Stirred?
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- Shaken: Chills quickly, introduces more dilution and air—light and refreshing.
- Stirred: The classic method. Keeps the drink smooth, clear, and pure.
At Durham Distillery, we stir ours out of respect for both flavour and tradition.
Your Garnish, Your Statement
Your garnish says a lot.
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- With a Twist: Lemon peel adds brightness and zest.
- With an Olive: Brings a savoury pop that complements the spirit.
Pro Tip: Try a rosemary sprig or cucumber ribbon for a Durham Distillery twist with one of our other gin expressions (Paradise City Citrus Gin or Purple Rain Gin).
Here’s How to Get Started
If this is your first time diving into the world of Martinis, don’t worry—you’re in the right place. Whether you’ve never stirred a cocktail in your life or you’re looking to level up your home bartending game, we’ve got everything you need to make your perfect pour.
Start with Simple Recipes
A great place to begin is our Cocktail Recipe Page. We’ve put together easy, tried-and-true classics like the Lychee Martini with step-by-step instructions and flavour notes.
Each recipe highlights our all-natural spirits—so you can focus on taste, not guesswork.
Take a Cocktail Class with Us
Want a hands-on experience? Join one of our Cocktail Classes at the distillery. You’ll learn the foundations of making a great Martini, from shaking vs. stirring to choosing the right garnish—and you’ll leave with the confidence (and recipes) to impress your next guests.
Whether you start with a lemon twist or an olive, the most important ingredient is curiosity. We’ll help with the rest.
Make It Yours – Then Share It
Making a Martini at home with London Calling Dry Gin or Patio Lanterns Vodka?
We want to see it.
Snap a photo, tag us @TheDurhamDistillery, and use #RealTastesBetter for a chance to be featured on our page.