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Cocktails

Vodka Martini

Served in a Cocktail Glass

Reviewed by , Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic29.4% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
130 cal29.4% ABV1.27 US std0.9g sugar1.4g carbsAbout these numbers

Difficulty

Easyshaken drink

Why: 3 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker

Best for: Salty Food, Seafood, Aperitif

Ingredients & Tools

BaseModifierGarnish
  • 1 1/2 ozVodkaBase
  • 3/4 ozDry VermouthModifier
  • 1OliveGarnish
Tools:shaker

How to Make It

  1. Shake the vodka and vermouth together with a number of ice cubes, strain into a cocktail glass, add the olive and serve.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.

Best For

AperitifHappy Hour

Food Pairings

Salty FoodSeafoodCaviar

Diet & Lifestyle

Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian

Make it your way

Adjust this drink

Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Match it with foodFind food pairings that complement the flavors in this drink.

Swap notes

Base spiritVodka is the most forgiving swap. A neutral vodka keeps the drink clean. Flavoured vodkas add character but change the balance — cut back on other flavourings if you use one.
GarnishThe olive adds a savoury, briny note that defines the drink's finish. A cocktail onion makes it a Gibson — sharper and more pungent. A lemon twist adds brightness without the salt. Leave the garnish out entirely and the drink tastes noticeably rounder and softer.

Explore next

Cocktail recipesMocktail alternativesFood pairingsFlavors

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Vodka Martini?
The Vodka Martini is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 29.4%. A standard serving contains approximately 130 calories.
What does a Vodka Martini taste like?
Vodka Martini has a flavour profile featuring Botanical, Citrus, Dry, Herbal. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
What food goes well with a Vodka Martini?
Vodka Martini pairs well with Salty Food, Seafood, Caviar. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
How strong is a Vodka Martini?
The Vodka Martini has an ABV of approximately 29.4%. That's approximately 1.27 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 130 calories, 0.9g sugar, 1.4g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
When is a Vodka Martini typically served?
Vodka Martini is a popular choice for Aperitif, Happy Hour. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
What drinks are similar to a Vodka Martini?
If you enjoy Vodka Martini, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
Can I make a Vodka Martini at home?
Yes. The Vodka Martini uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Vodka Martini with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.