The Ultimate Little Martini Book (Ultimate Little Books) - Softcover

A Short History of the Origins of the Martini

Nobody is quite sure how the martini came into existence, but there are a few interesting theories...

• First made by bartender professor Jerry Thomas of San Francisco for a stranger on his way to Martinez. Thomas made it with gin, vermouth, bitters, and a dash of maraschino.
• First made by a bartender in Martinez, California, for a gold miner who struck it rich. The miner ordered champagne for the house, but there was none. The bartender offered something better-the "Martinez Special"- made with sauterne and gin. The rich miner spread the word, ordering "Martinez Specials" throughout California.
• First made at the Knickerbocker Hotel in the early 1900s by a bartender named Martini di Arma Tiggia. He is said to have mixed a martini using only dry gin and only dry vermouth.
• Named after the British army rifle called The Martini and Henry. The rifle was known for its kick, like the first sip of gin and "it" ("it" being vermouth).
• Named after Martini & Rossi vermouth, because it was first used in the drink, gin and "it," with ½ gin and 1/2 Martini & Rossi vermouth.

Instructions

• All recipes have been alphabetized for your convenience.
• All recipes have been indexed by name and by alcohol for your convenience.
• Shake, stir, swirl, strain, or whatever. It's really up to you.
• Brand names are interchangeable for the same type of alcohol. Nobody will come to hunt you down-you can use Stoli, Absolut, or Skyy vodka even if the recipe calls for Skyy vodka.
• Some drinks (not many) have the same ingredients, but different brand names-pick your favorite.
• Always use the highest quality ingredients possible.
• If you have trouble finding an ingredient, omit it and go on with your life.
• If the recipe does not have measurements, use your own taste.
• French vermouth is white and dry; Italian vermouth is red and sweet.
• We do not recommend flaming a drink.
• Don't drink and drive.
• For more information, visit www.bartender.com.
• Have a great life and enjoy your martinis. All recipes with this icon have been submitted by one of America's top bartenders. Enjoy!

Publisher's Note: This book and the recipes contained herein are intended for those of a legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly and ensure you and your guests have a designated driver when consuming alcoholic beverages.