Barsys
Dirty Martini
About
The Dirty Martini is what happens when a timeless classic decides to play a little rougher. It’s everything you love about a dry martini – crisp gin, chilled glass, iconic garnish – but with a briny, savory twist thanks to olive juice.
Originally born out of martini lovers asking bartenders to “dirty” their drink with a splash of olive brine, the Dirty Martini became a legend in its own right. It’s salty, smooth, and unapologetically bold.
This isn’t your delicate garden party sipper. It’s the drink that shows up with purpose. Sophisticated, slightly indulgent, and made for those who don’t mind a little bite with their balance.
Shaken or Stirred? Stirred. Always. Shaking bruises the gin and clouds the drink – keep it smooth and clear with a confident stir over ice.
What You'll Need
For one Dirty Martini cocktail:
- 60ml gin (or vodka, if you prefer)
- 15ml dry vermouth
- 15ml olive brine
- Ice
Optional garnish: 1–3 green olives on a pick (stuffed or plain)
Pro tip: Use high-quality brine from a jar of gourmet green olives—not the bottom-shelf stuff.
How to Make It
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add gin, dry vermouth, and olive brine.
- Stir gently for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with olives on a pick.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
Tasting Notes
The Barsys Edge
The dirty martini is all about precision. A little too much brine and you lose the balance; too little and it’s just a martini with a salt problem. Barsys nails the core ratios every time so you can focus on the stir and the serve.
Let Barsys measure the mix. You add the personality.
Sip Setting
This one’s built for rooftop evenings, dimly lit lounges, or nights when you’re dressing up even if you’re staying in. The Dirty Martini is all attitude with a salty wink.
Garnish Game
Classic: green olives, ideally two or three. Want to go extra? Try blue cheese-stuffed olives or a cocktail skewer with lemon peel and olive for a layered look.
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FAQs
What is a Dirty Martini?
A dirty martini is a variation of the classic martini that includes olive brine, giving the drink a savory, salty character alongside gin and dry vermouth.
Can I use vodka instead of gin?
Yes. Vodka makes for a cleaner, smoother version. It’s all preference.
How much olive brine should I use?
Start with 15ml. Want it dirtier? Go up in small increments. The brine should complement—not overpower—the drink.
Should I shake or stir a Dirty Martini?
Stir it. Stirring keeps the drink clear and preserves the silky texture. Shaking can dilute or cloud the mix.
Does Barsys work with this recipe?
Absolutely. Let Barsys handle the gin and vermouth, while you customize the brine level to your taste. Stir it cold, garnish, and enjoy