Philadelphia, PA—So, what is an espresso martini? Well, that depends on who you ask. There are so many variations of this drink that there isn't a generally accepted recipe. The only consistent ingredients are espresso and vodka, and even then, the espresso is sometimes substituted with coffee or even instant coffee crystals.
The best espresso martinis are usually made with authentic espresso. If you're making one at home, let it cool to room temperature before adding it to your cocktail shaker. Using ice to cool your espresso will result in watered-down espresso.
The vodka in an espresso martini is almost always flavored. The most popular option is using vanilla vodka and adding coffee liqueur. But now there are espresso-flavored vodkas available as well. Whether you use unflavored vodka, vanilla, or espresso, just remember that you don't want to use gin. Martinis are made with gin but don't taste great when mixed with espresso.
All the variations come into play once the vodka and the espresso are added. Some people like adding a Grand Marnier splash, while other recipes call for Tia Maria or Amaretto. Even chocolate liqueurs can be added if you prefer the taste of a mochaccino to a regular espresso. If you like the taste of one of these liqueurs and think it will go with your espresso martini, give it a try. Whatever you choose, be sure only to use to use it only because the primary purpose of this additional liqueur is to add a hint of. You don't want to overpower the fundamental characteristics of the martini.
The one thing almost all martini recipes agree on is the garnish. Three espresso beans will top your drink off correctly. Garnish rules say that odd amounts are lucky, so go with one, three, or five beans.
Espresso martinis are becoming increasingly popular, no matter how they are made. Whether you're a regular at your local coffee house or that swanky martini bar in the city, why not order an espressotini the next time you're looking for a new and unusual drink?