10 facts about the Martini that you probably didn't know

In honor of International Martini Day (June 19), we're sharing 10 facts about our all-time favorite gin cocktail, which, shockingly, isn't well-known in France.

FACT #1

The martini cocktail ≠ red or white vermouths from the Martini & Rossi brand!

FACT #2

The cocktail was created in the United States at the end of the 19th century. Still, the exact inventor of the martini will remain a legend.

FACT #3

The ingredients for a classic martini are simple: premium dry gin, dry vermouth (preferably French!), and a green olive or lemon zest for garnish.

FACT #4

Contrary to what you've heard in James Bond movies, it's best to stir ingredients rather than shake them when making a martini.

FACT #5

A martini is usually served "dry" (meaning that little dry vermouth is used) in a chilled martini glass.

FACT #6

There are several types/styles of martini: bone dry, dry, wet, dirty, burnt, navy, Churchill, Gibson, Montgomery et Vesper.

FACT #7

The Vesper Martini was made famous by James Bond. Ian Fleming, the author of Bond, invented the cocktail named after the fictional double agent Vesper Lynd from his 1953 book Casino Royale. Casino Royale, published in 1953. 

FACT #8

Adding olive brine to classic martini ingredients makes it a "dirty" martini, the style favored by former United States President Franklin Roosevelt.

FACT #9

According to superstition, drinking a martini with two olives is bad luck. Opt for one or three olives to be sure!

FACT #10

When ordering a martini, there are five questions every good bartender should ask:

1. What type of martini (bone dry, dry, dirty, or wet)?
2. Gin or vodka and brand?
3. Shaken or stirred?
4. Straight up or on the rocks?
5. What type of garnish (i.e., olive(s), lemon twist, or cocktail onions = Gibson)?

Now that you're a martini expert, why not order one the next time you go out or make one at home? It's easy and delicious! Watch the how-to video to learn how to make a martini at home: Watch how-to video to learn how to make a martini at home: