Making the Perfect Martini

Just as important as your gin, the bottles of vermouth that you choose can enhance your perfect martini. It's tempting to discount the fortified wines and pick up inexpensive bottles, but there are some great vermouths worthy of any bar. Look for bottles such as Carpano, Cinzano, Noilly Prat, and Vya. Don't be afraid to explore unknown names because there are many smaller producers making some very impressive options. No matter which you choose, write the date you open it on the label. Vermouth has a shelf life of just 3 months, after which it will lose flavor and should be replaced.

Martinis always bring up the shaken or stirred debate and most drinkers have an opinion of which method is best. Stirring gently marries the ingredients' flavors with subtle dilution while the extra dilution of shaking relaxes the flavor and adds air. The general "rule" is to stir cocktails that are comprised only of liquor, saving the shake for those with nonalcoholic mixers, such as the cosmopolitan. However, as with most things in the bar, it's a matter of personal preference. The point is to create your ideal perfect martini because you're drinking it. Give both mixing methods a try and see which you prefer. Also, there may be some gins you like shaken or times when you're in the mood for a stirred martini. Be open and flexible, but most of all, have fun with the experience!