History and Origins

The Espresso Martini was created in the 1980s by British bartender Dick Bradsell. The story goes that a young model (often rumored to be Kate Moss or Naomi Campbell) walked into Bradsell’s bar at the Soho Brasserie in London and asked for a drink that would “wake me up and then mess me up.” Bradsell combined vodka, freshly brewed espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar syrup to create the now-iconic cocktail.

How to make Espresso Martini Recipe

Ingredients:

1 shot (25ml) freshly brewed espresso
1 shot (25ml) coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
1 shot (25ml) vodka
Ice cubes
Coffee beans (for garnish)

Instructions:

Brew the Espresso: Make a shot of fresh espresso using a high-quality coffee machine like a Nespresso.
Prepare the Shaker: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the espresso, coffee liqueur, and vodka into the shaker.
Shake Vigorously: Shake well to mix and chill the ingredients, creating a frothy top layer.
Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish: Add a few coffee beans on top for garnish.

Tips for the Perfect Espresso Martini:

Quality Matters: Use a good quality espresso shot to enhance the drink’s depth of flavor.
Chill the Glass: Chilling the martini glass beforehand keeps the cocktail colder for longer.
Shake Well: Shaking the mixture vigorously is key to achieving the thick, creamy froth that makes this drink so appealing.
Serving Suggestions: Serve as a standalone cocktail at parties or as a luxurious digestif after dinner to keep the evening lively.

This decadent cocktail is perfect for any festive gathering, ensuring you and your guests stay energized and enjoy the night to its fullest. Cheers and happy festive season!