As Perfect as a Sonnet

H. L. Mencken described the martini as “the only American invention as perfect as the sonnet.” We agree, and recommend this recipe from MATCH contributor, The Bitter Gringo, as the perfect martini for your next gathering. Make ahead, store in the freezer, and all you have to do is pour, garnish and listen to your guests wax poetic. Pour after pour — effortless, elegant, extraordinary.

Freezer Martini

Perfect Freezer Martini

  • 14 ounces of Gin or Vodka
  • 2 ounces of Dry Vermouth
  • 2 ounces of Blanc Vermouth
  • 6 dashes of Orange Bitters
  • 3 ounces of filtered water

Dry Freezer Martini

  • 14 ounces of Gin or Vodka
  • 4 ounces of Dry Vermouth
  • 6 dashes of Orange Bitters
  • 3 ounces of filtered water

To prepare your Freezer Martini, add all the ingredients into a glass bottle, seal it, and place it in the freezer for 6 hours or overnight. This is also a good time to freeze your cocktail glasses if you are going to.

To serve, pour the desired amount into your well-chilled glass and garnish.

Garnish Ideas: Olives, Onions, Gherkins, Lemon Peel, Orange Peel.

Tips: Mix the ingredients when you make the batches to find your favorite recipe. Many types of gins can alter your cocktails. Also, explore the vermouths and think about trying some sherry. Lastly, you can play with your bitters, try lemon or grapefruit, or combine a few. Freezer-chilled glassware is the best, keeping the glass the coldest and driest versus chilling with ice and water.