As a man, I can tell you women keep some secrets well hidden. For example, the real reason ladies go to the restroom together is not for gossip, but because there’s an air hockey table behind the last stall. Another not-so-well-guarded secret: espresso martinis are downright delicious.
Espresso Martini – Magically Delicious
Men, as a rule, often have a problem. In a desperate attempt to seem manly, we shun certain things that are truly enjoyable. While we watch our female friends quietly sip their espresso martini, we roll our internal eyes and consider that a foo-foo drink. All the while we cling to our bourbon. In the not-too-distant past, someone close to me had ordered an espresso martini and offered me a sip. In an attempt not to be rude, I accepted and put the glass to my lips. What I found is that an espresso martini is ridiculously tasty. It is a mix of an adult cocktail and a delicious dessert all in one glass.
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As a connoisseur of espresso martinis, she schooled me on what makes a good cocktail. It’s ironic that I enjoy this drink, as I’m not a coffee person. Despite several attempts, I can’t acquire a taste for coffee, so I was surprised to like a cocktail whose main ingredient is espresso.
The Construction
In our analytic discussion of the construction of a good espresso martini, three things stood out as critical. First, real espresso must be used. In some bars, they use cold brew simply because it’s easier. She essentially stomped her foot and said, do not do that. She actually used other words that I don’t think my editor would approve of. The second item is the vodka involved. Premium vodka is critical to make a good espresso martini. This is not surprising as high-quality spirits are always our primary choice.
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The third item is that the martini must be shaken as if it owes you money. A gentle rattle in the shaker will not give you the experience that you’re looking for. The bartender must vigorously shake the mixture for a long time to develop the foam that is so important to a good martini. If their shoulders aren’t cramping and their face is covered in sweat, it is not going to be right.
When it Comes Together
The coming together of these three elements creates a delicious elixir that’s easy to drink and very tasty. Recently, at the Athlon Outdoors Rendezvous, I was introduced to a bourbon version of this martini, which I found equally enjoyable—though personal taste may vary. And before any critiques arrive, I acknowledge that many have already discovered this delicious drink, and I applaud you.
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Espresso Martini
In the end, I’m a little embarrassed I avoided this cocktail for so long. I thought I’d stopped giving in to peer pressure when I was 13, but old stigmas persist. My suggestion to everyone is that if you haven’t tried an espresso martini, I highly encourage you to give it a spin. If made correctly, it’s well worth your time—and your taste buds will thank you. Enjoy and drink responsibly
Ingredients
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Freshly brewed espresso
- ½ oz Coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
- ¼ oz Simple syrup (optional, to taste)
- Garnish: 3 coffee beans
Instructions
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- Combine: Add vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake: Shake vigorously for about 20 seconds until the outside of the shaker is frosty. This creates the foam.
- Strain: Double strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish: Float three coffee beans on top of the foam.
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