Dry Vodka Martini

A dry vodka martini is crisp, clean, and effortlessly classic. I make the classic recipe with vodka, dry vermouth, and a dash of bitters. It's simple to prepare and always feels a little special.

I love how straightforward a dry vodka martini is. With just a few ingredients, you get a cocktail that's smooth, balanced, and beautifully chilled. The vodka keeps the flavor clean and crisp, while dry vermouth adds subtle herbal notes that round out the flavors. A single dash of bitters adds a quiet depth, making the drink feel complete.

This is a stirred cocktail, not shaken. I stir the vodka, dry vermouth, and bitters with plenty of ice until it's icy cold, then strain it into a chilled martini glass. The result is silky, clear, and perfectly balanced.

If you prefer an extra-dry martini, you can simply reduce the amount of vermouth, or even just give the glass a quick rinse with vermouth before adding the vodka. Garnish with a lemon twist for a bright citrus aroma, or add a few olives for a slightly savory finish. Either way, it's a timeless cocktail that's easy to make at home.

Kristen Stevens

Dry Vodka Martini

This dry vodka martini is a classic cocktail made with vodka, dry vermouth, and a dash of bitters. Stirred until icy cold and garnished with a lemon twist or olives, it's crisp, smooth, and perfectly balanced.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 0 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1 martini

Course: Cocktail

Ingredients

  

• 2 ounces vodka
• ½ ounce dry vermouth
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Lemon twist or olives for garnish

Method

 

1. To a cocktail mixer or jar, add the vodka, dry vermouth, and a drop of bitters, and then add ice.
   2 ounces vodka, ½ ounce dry vermouth, 1 dash orange bitters
   
2. Stir until cold, then strain into a martini glass and garnish with a lemon twist or olives on a skewer.
   Lemon twist or olives