Gin Blossom Martini

ABV 24.3% / 3.4 Alcoholic Units

Primary Spirit: Gin

A Brief History of the Gin Blossom Martini

The Gin Blossom Martini is a contemporary twist on the classic Martini, influenced by floral and botanical forward mixology trends. The addition of elderflower liqueur, a modern favourite in cocktails, sets it apart from traditional gin martinis, offering a softer, more fragrant drinking experience. While not as widely known as the classic Martini, the Gin Blossom Martini has gained popularity among cocktail lovers who appreciate the interplay of gin’s complex botanicals with floral and citrus notes.

Taste and Flavour Profile

The Gin Blossom Martini has a smooth and fragrant profile, with a base of herbaceous and juniper-forward gin complemented by the delicate floral sweetness of elderflower liqueur. The dry vermouth adds a crisp, slightly bitter edge, while a hint of orange bitters rounds out the flavours with subtle citrus warmth. The result is a cocktail that is light, aromatic, and slightly sweet, with a clean, dry finish.

Food Pairings

The light, floral, and crisp nature of the Gin Blossom Martini makes it a versatile pairing for a variety of dishes:

• Bruschetta with Goat Cheese and Honey – The tangy, creamy cheese and sweet honey enhance the elderflower’s floral sweetness.
• Grilled White Fish or Scallops – The delicate flavours of seafood pair well with the fresh and botanical notes of the cocktail.
• Citrus and Herb Salad – A light, zesty salad with orange segments and fresh herbs mirrors the drink’s citrus and floral profile.
• Lavender Shortbread Cookies – The subtle sweetness and floral aroma of the cookies complement the elegant botanicals in the cocktail.

Bar Equipment

• Mixing glass
• Bar spoon
• Jigger
• Hawthorne strainer & conical sieve
• Martini or coupe glass
• Channel knife

Ingredients

• 50ml London Dry Gin
• 45ml Dry Vermouth
• 20ml Apricot liqueur
• 2 Dashes of orange bitters
• Ice
• Garnish: lemon twist

Method

• Place ice into mixing glass and add all ingredients. Gently stir of 20-30 seconds
• Double strain into a chilled martini/coupe glass
• Garnish with an lemon twist

What's the best Gin for a Gin Blossom Martini?

The choice of the best gin for a Gin Blossom Martini cocktail largely depends on your personal taste preferences. However, traditionally, a London dry gin is the preferred and most commonly used gin for making a classic Martini. Here are a few reasons why London dry gin is a popular choice:

• Juniper-Forward Flavour: London dry gins are known for their strong juniper flavour. Juniper is a key botanical in gin and imparts the classic piney and resinous notes that many associate with a Martini.

• Clean and Crisp: London dry gins typically have a clean and crisp flavor profile, making them an ideal base for a Martini. They provide a well-defined gin character that pairs nicely with dry vermouth.

• Versatility: London dry gins are versatile and work well in various Martini styles, whether you prefer it "dry" with minimal vermouth or "wet" with a bit more vermouth.

• Balance: The juniper-forward nature of London dry gins balances nicely with the herbal and slightly bitter notes of dry vermouth, creating a well-rounded Martini.

Popular brands of London dry gin that are frequently recommended for making Martinis include Tanqueray, Beefeater, Bombay Sapphire, and Gordon's. However, there are many other excellent London dry gins available, and your choice may also depend on your budget and personal taste preferences.

It's worth noting that the Martini is a cocktail with a long history and has evolved over time. Today, some Martini enthusiasts experiment with different types of gins, including those with more botanical complexity or unique flavor profiles. So, while London dry gin is the traditional and widely accepted choice, don't hesitate to explore other gins if you're looking to create a Martini that suits your personal taste preferences.