Candy Cane Martini

The Martini, a classic cocktail made with gin and vermouth that has been the proverbial mouse of every cat-like bartender in existence since the 1960s and ‘70s. There have been appletinis, mochatinis, orangetinis and yes, even peppermint or candy cane tinis. It is important that every creator or artist has the ability to experiment within their craft however there are certain rules, or laws, of cocktail mixing that may be forgotten when you start mixing with a narrow mind.

The origins of the martini are just about as varied as those of fairy tales and nursery rhymes. One account has the martini originating on the west coast of the U.S. by a prospector during the gold rush whereas another has it first being seen on the other side of the country in New York. It is however generally accepted that the martini was first mixed in the 1800’s and the original version was gin based. Since then a plethora of ‘tinis have hit the bar scene and if there is one thing they have in common; few, if any, are balanced.

Mixing, as in cooking, the debate continues between art and science. While some sit on one side or the other, in this man’s opinion, it’s a blend of both. For any great chef or bartender, it is there artistic flair coupled with the understanding of the nature of their ingredients that makes for an exemplary end product. With most great classic cocktails balance is key. Some may sway slightly sweet or mildly bitter but there is always a balance at play.   It is my intention to bring some kind of balance back, or for the first time, to the candy cane or peppermint martini.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

1.5 oz. vodka

1 oz. dry vermouth

.5 oz. peppermint schnapps

1 candy cane, crushed into dust.

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients into a mixing tin with ice.
2. Shake for 20-30 seconds, or until properly chilled.
3. Wet the rim of a martini glass and gently coat the rim with candy cane dust.
4. Strain cocktail into martini glass.
5. Garnish with mint leaf if desired.
6. Serve

This take on the candy cane ‘tini really pulls the drink back into balance. It is possible that originally this cocktail was meant to be sweet, however for those of us who prefer to couple tradition alongside seasonal flavours, this drink is much better balanced than some of the other versions. A vodka cocktail should have a hint of flavour but for the most part be clean and crisp; if that’s what you are looking for, your search is over.