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The many-faceted martini

Atlas head bartender Jesse Vida explains the principles behind the bar's classic cocktail

Janice Heng

Janice Heng

Published Fri, Feb 22, 2019 · 09:50 PM

    THERE are many theories about how the martini got its name, from an Italian vermouth maker to the Californian town of Martinez. But perhaps this palimpsest of a provenance is fitting for such a changeable cocktail.

    A classic martini consists of gin and vermouth. Yet today, almost anything served in a martini glass is given the name. Hence vodka-based espresso or lychee martinis, for instance, which bear little resemblance to James Bond's poison of choice.

    "There's a three-step process in what makes a good martini, in my opinion," says Atlas Bar head bartender Jesse Vida. "Firstly, it's the martini conversation, feeling out what you or a guest are looking for: Would you like gin or vodka, dry, dirty, or standard, olive or lemon twist?"

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