Espresso Martini
Vodka, coffee liqueur and a fresh shot of espresso, shaken until a thick crema forms on top.
Shaken · Coupe · Medium · about 3 minutes · about 17% ABV
Ingredients
- 50 ml Vodka
- 20 ml Coffee liqueur
- 30 ml Espresso
- 10 ml Sugar syrup
- Three coffee beans (garnish)
Method
- Chill the glass
- Pour 50 ml vodka into the shaker
- Pour 20 ml coffee liqueur into the shaker
- Pour 30 ml espresso into the shaker
- Pour 10 ml sugar syrup into the shaker
- Add ice
- Shake hard
- Strain
- Garnish
Tip
Use espresso pulled in the last few minutes. Fresh coffee gives the foamiest head.
About the Espresso Martini
Created by Dick Bradsell in London in the 1980s. The well-known story says a model asked him for a drink that would "wake me up, and then…" and he combined vodka, espresso and coffee liqueur. It was first called the Vodka Espresso, then the Pharmaceutical Stimulant.
The coffee family. Coffee and spirits have long been paired across Europe, from the Spanish carajillo to the Italian caffè corretto. Irish Coffee was created at Foynes in Ireland in the early 1940s, and the Espresso Martini in London in the 1980s. These drinks belong to the after-dinner tradition.
Espresso Martini FAQ
What's in an Espresso Martini?
50 ml vodka, 20 ml coffee liqueur, 30 ml espresso, 10 ml sugar syrup, garnished with three coffee beans.
How strong is an Espresso Martini?
About 17% ABV once mixed with ice, which is 1.9 Australian standard drinks per serve. That is stronger than a glass of wine.
Should I shake or stir an Espresso Martini?
Shake it. shaking chills it quickly and adds a little texture.
What glass do you serve an Espresso Martini in?
A coupe, about 180 ml. Chill the glass first and serve without ice. No coupe? Use a martini glass or small wine glass.
