Sweet Martini #2 Cocktail recipe
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Sweet Martini #2 sits in the Martini family’s wider orbit, leaning closer to the early, vermouth-forward styles than the ultra-dry versions many people picture today. With gin as the backbone and red vermouth taking a starring role, it reads like a softer, sweeter take on a classic gin-and-vermouth template, finished with a small nod toward after-dinner richness. Its exact origin isn’t widely documented, but the profile fits the long tradition of spirit-forward cocktails built around aromatised wine.
You’ll find the gin’s crisp botanicals framed by the deeper, spiced sweetness of red vermouth, which brings body and a rounded, wine-like richness. A dash of grenadine pushes the drink further into a sweet-leaning lane, adding a bright, syrupy fruit note that smooths any sharp edges and makes the vermouth taste plusher. The result is aromatic, gently sweet, and still recognisably gin-led.
Serve this when you want a Martini-style drink that feels more approachable and less austere. It suits pre-dinner sipping if you like a touch of sweetness, and it also works as a relaxed nightcap for anyone who enjoys vermouth-forward cocktails without the intensity of heavier liqueurs.
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Cocktail Colin says:
Gin’s crisp botanicals are wrapped in the rich, winey sweetness of red vermouth, while a dash of grenadine adds a bright pomegranate-like candy note that rounds the edges and deepens the ruby tone. It works because the gin’s dryness keeps the vermouth and grenadine from feeling cloying, making it ideal for drinkers who like spirit-forward cocktails with a softer, sweeter finish.
Method
How to make a Sweet Martini #2
- Gin 15ml, Red vermouth 30ml, Grenadine Dash
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- Add together ice, grenadine, gin and vermouth in a cocktail shaker and shake well
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- Strain into a chilled martini glass
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- Garnish with a cherry then serve
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FAQ's
Why is the Sweet Martini #2 shaken and not stirred?
Shaking the Sweet Martini #2, as opposed to stirring, is preferred for a couple of reasons. Firstly, shaking it with ice cools the drink more rapidly, which is essential for serving it cold. Secondly, the vigorous action of shaking introduces small air bubbles, giving the cocktail a slightly aerated texture that can enhance the melding of flavors from the gin, grenadine, and red vermouth.
What are some garnishing suggestions for Sweet Martini #2?
For the Sweet Martini #2, classic garnishing options include a twist of lemon peel or an orange slice to complement the sweetness of the grenadine and richness of the vermouth. You can also consider adding a maraschino cherry for a classic martini look and an extra touch of sweetness.
What is the best temperature to serve Sweet Martini #2 at?
The Sweet Martini #2 is best served very cold. This can be achieved by shaking the ingredients with ice before straining into a chilled cocktail glass. Storing the cocktail glass in the freezer for a few minutes before serving can also ensure the drink remains cold longer.
How does the alcohol content in Sweet Martini #2 compare to a standard martini?
The Sweet Martini #2 has an alcohol content of 24%, which is slightly lower than a standard martini. Traditional martinis usually have an alcohol content between 25% to 32%, depending on the ratio of gin (or vodka) to vermouth used and the strength of the base spirits.
Can I modify the Sweet Martini #2 to make it slightly less sweet?
Yes, you can easily adjust the sweetness of the Sweet Martini #2 by reducing the amount of grenadine or increasing the proportion of gin. Experimenting with different types of vermouth can also alter the sweetness levels; for example, opting for a dry or extra dry vermouth instead of red vermouth might provide a more balanced flavor if you find the original recipe too sweet.
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