The Martini is often associated with James Bond, while the Negroni is most often associated with Ernest Hemingway.
They are both known for their classic flavours and sophisticated presentation.
But what is the history of these two iconic drinks?
The Martini
is thought to have originated in Italy in the late 19th century. But a more popular story says that it was invented by "Professor" Jerry Thomas, a famous bartender who worked in San Francisco and New York. Thomas is credited with inventing other classic cocktails, including the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned.
The original Martini was made with Old Tom gin, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Over time, the recipe has evolved, and today Martinis are typically made with dry vermouth and garnished with an olive or lemon twist.
The Negroni
a more recent invention, dating back to the early 20th century. It is thought to have been created by Count Camillo Negroni, a customer at Caffe Casoni in Florence, Italy. Negroni was a fan of the Americano, a cocktail made with Campari, sweet vermouth, and soda water. One day, he asked the bartender to make his Americano with gin instead of soda water. The result was a more bitter and boozy cocktail, which Negroni modestly named after himself.
The Negroni quickly became popular in Florence, and it soon spread to other parts of Italy.
Today, it is one of the most popular cocktails in the world.
So, which one is the better cocktail?
That's a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the dry, refreshing taste of the Martini, while others prefer the bold, bitter flavour of the Negroni.
If you're not sure which one you'll like, try both! You can't go wrong with either one.
Here are some tips for making a perfect Martini or Negroni:
Use quality ingredients.
This is especially important for the gin and vermouth, I have used Watertons reserve Gin beacause it has cocoa nibs in the botanicles as they will make a big difference in the taste of the cocktail.
Use a good shaker.
A sturdy shaker will help to chill the cocktail and create a good froth.
Don't dilute the cocktail.
find a balance between the alcohol and the vermouth.
Garnish the cocktail
A Martini should be served in a chilled martini glass, and garnished with an olive or lemon twist, while a Negroni is typically served in a rocks glass over ice garnished with an orange peel.
No matter which cocktail you prefer, there's no denying that the Martini and the Negroni are two of the most iconic cocktails in the world. So next time you're looking for a sophisticated drink to enjoy, be sure to order one of these classic cocktails.