A David Martinez cocktail is a refreshing, citrusy classic with just the right balance of sweetness and botanicals. It’s one of those drinks that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make at home. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it’s my go-to for summer evenings or whenever I want something light and flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail maker or just getting started, this recipe is sure to impress.
David Martinez
Ingredients
You’ll need just a few ingredients to whip up a perfect David Martinez:
- 2 oz (60 ml) gin
- 1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- Lemon twist (for garnish)
Optional equipment: a mixing glass, a cocktail strainer, and a chilled cocktail glass (or a coupe glass if you want a fancier vibe).
Prep Time & Servings
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Method
- Start by chilling your cocktail glass. Pop it in the freezer for a few minutes or fill it with ice water while you mix the drink.
- In a mixing glass filled with ice, pour in the gin, sweet vermouth, and add 2 dashes of orange bitters.
- Stir everything together until the outside of the mixing glass feels icy cold—about 20–30 seconds. This step ensures your cocktail is perfectly chilled and smooth.
- Dump out the ice or water from your cocktail glass, if using, and strain the drink into it.
- Garnish with a lemon twist, giving it a little squeeze over the glass to release its citrus oils before dropping it in or perching it on the rim.
And that’s it! You’ve just made a David Martinez.
Tips & Tricks
- Chill everything: Keep your gin, vermouth, and even the bitters chilled for the best-tasting cocktail.
- Fresh is best: Use a fresh lemon for the garnish. It makes a big difference in aroma and flavor.
- Stir, don’t shake: Stirring keeps the drink clear and silky, while shaking would cloud it up.
Make-Ahead Notes
If you’re hosting a party, you can pre-mix the gin, vermouth, and bitters (without ice) and keep it in the fridge. When ready to serve, just stir it with ice, strain, and garnish. This keeps the drink tasting fresh while saving you some time.
Substitutions
- Gin: Swap it for vodka if you prefer a smoother, less botanical taste.
- Sweet vermouth: Try dry vermouth if you like less sweetness and more herbal flavors.
- Orange bitters: Experiment with other bitters, like Angostura or grapefruit bitters, for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your David Martinez with light bites to complement its refreshing, citrusy notes. Here are a few ideas:
- Charcuterie: Salty cured meats and cheeses balance the sweetness of the vermouth.
- Seafood: Grilled shrimp or smoked salmon are great with the drink’s citrusy edge.
- Dark chocolate: A little piece of bittersweet chocolate makes for an indulgent pairing.
Variations
Once you’ve nailed the classic recipe, here are a few fun ways to mix it up:
Rosemary Bliss
- Ingredients: Add a sprig of rosemary.
- Method: Muddle the rosemary with the gin before mixing as usual.
Summer Splash
- Ingredients: Add cucumber slices and a splash of elderflower liqueur.
- Method: Muddle the cucumber before mixing, then add the elderflower liqueur alongside the gin and vermouth.
Spicy Rendezvous
- Ingredients: Add a dash of hot sauce and a slice of jalapeño.
- Method: Stir the hot sauce into the mixture and garnish with the jalapeño slice for a bold kick.
FAQs
Can I use any gin for this cocktail?
Yes! Different gins will give slightly different flavors, so feel free to experiment. London dry gin is a classic choice, but a floral or citrus-forward gin works beautifully too.
What if I don’t drink alcohol? Can I still enjoy a David Martinez?
Absolutely! Use a non-alcoholic gin substitute and swap the vermouth for a non-alcoholic aperitif. You’ll still get all the refreshing citrusy and herbal vibes.
What’s the best time to enjoy this cocktail?
Honestly, anytime works, but it’s especially perfect for warm summer evenings or as a light aperitif before dinner.
Can I skip the bitters?
You can, but bitters add a subtle depth that rounds out the drink. If you don’t have orange bitters, try another kind, or add a tiny splash of orange juice for a similar effect.
Final Thoughts
A David Martinez is one of those cocktails that feels fancy but is wonderfully simple to make. Its bright, citrusy flavors and smooth, slightly sweet finish make it a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re sipping it solo on a lazy afternoon or serving it to guests, this cocktail is sure to impress. And with so many ways to tweak it, you’ll never get bored. Cheers!
