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  • Writer's pictureAdam Mangen

The Tale of the Espresso Martini

How one of the most popular and unique cocktails came to be.

Posted with permission from Advanced Mixology


Coffee is a drink that most of us just can't live without. Alcohol is a must-have in parties and other occasions for everyone to have a good time. And if you combine those two together, you get a bittersweet, satisfying blend called Espresso Martini! It may sound too good to be true, but such a cocktail actually exists.


In fact, it holds the top 7 spot in the best cocktails list this year! You don't even need to travel far to get a taste of it, because its recipe is so easy to prepare that you can make it at home. With the right amount of espresso, coffee liqueur, vodka and sugar syrup, you can enjoy the addictive, rich and foamy drink that's perfect for both after-meals and night outs.



We bet British bartender Dick Bradsell, London's Godfather of cocktails, was vaguely taken aback by the request of the stunning supermodel who came to Fred's Club that night in London, 1983. If you haven't heard about it yet, the said model requested a drink that can keep her awake and mess her up at the same time. And the best beverages that can make that happen are-you guessed it- coffee and alcohol. Bradsell thought it was a good idea to mix these two drinks together, and it turned out to be incredibly delicious. Thus, the Espresso Martini was created.


In case you're wondering, no, this cocktail isn't really a martini. Martinis were the talk of the town during that time, and Bradsell named his creation in accordance with the trend. Espresso Martini became an instant hit in London and the entire UK, even around Australia. Why it even has its own annual festival in those areas, and it lasts for five whole days! The US, however, didn't seem to take a liking to it at first. But eventually, it was accepted and became a guilty pleasure that cocktail enthusiasts shared.


That being said, we're sure you'll love it. Here's Advanced Mixology's Espresso Martini cocktail recipe to get you started.

 

Espresso Martini


Ingredients:

● 1 oz. strong espresso

● 1 oz. coffee liqueur

● 1 oz. Vodka

● 0.25 oz. simple syrup


Preparation:

1. Grab a shaker and fill it with ice.

2. Add the ingredients and shake vigorously.

3. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.


To make the best-tasting Espresso Martini, make sure to use espresso that has been chilled prior to preparing this drink to ensure that the cocktail won't taste too bitter. And after straining, add a few coffee beans for garnish.


Cheers!

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