The history of the Pornstar Martini
The Pornstar Martini is an icon of modern mixology, born of the boldness and creativity of a London bartender. Its story begins in the early 2000s, when Douglas Ankrah, founder of the famous Townhouse bar in London, devised a recipe that combines exoticism, glamour and a touch of provocation.
Originally, the cocktail was called the ‘Maverick Martini’, in reference to a strip club that Ankrah used to frequent. But it was a friend who, finding the name too understated, suggested renaming it the ‘Pornstar Martini’. At the time, the terms ‘rockstar’ and ‘pornstar’ were used to describe something exceptional. This name change, combined with the unique recipe, instantly captured attention and boosted the cocktail’s popularity.
From the moment it was created, the Pornstar Martini enjoyed phenomenal success. Its provocative name, unique taste and glamorous appeal make it one of the most ordered cocktails in the UK and around the world. In 2018, it was even the most popular cocktail. Despite some controversy surrounding its name, it remains a symbol of innovation and boldness in mixology.
Today, the Pornstar Martini is a classic on cocktail menus, appreciated for its originality and festive appeal. Whether for an evening with friends or a chic event, it continues to charm with its blend of boldness and sophistication.
The ingredients of the Pornstar Martini
Every ingredient in the Pornstar Martini contributes to the cocktail’s unique balance, combining exoticism, smoothness and effervescence. Fruity, creamy and slightly tart, it captivates with its bold combination of flavours.
- Passion fruit liqueur for an exotic touch. The best-known passion fruit liqueur is Passoa, a brand owned by the Dutch group Lucas Bols. However, there are many artisanal passion fruit liqueurs available, such as that from Maison Briottet. In this cocktail, it brings a fruity and tangy intensity. Its tropical fragrance and aromatic power make it the soul of the Pornstar Martini, the signature of this cocktail.
- Vanilla vodka for structure. Vanilla vodka serves as the base of the mix. Its velvety, slightly sweet character pairs perfectly with the passion fruit’s tartness, whilst providing a refined structure and a comforting touch with that hint of vanilla.
- Passion fruit purée for texture. The purée enhances the intensity of the passion fruit, adding a creamy texture and an explosion of exotic flavours. It gives the cocktail its richness and unique character.
- Fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick. The lemon lifts the whole drink with a fresh, natural acidity. It enhances the fruity and vanilla notes, whilst adding a zesty kick that makes the cocktail even more refreshing.
- Prosecco for a sparkling touch. Served separately in a shot glass, it adds a light, effervescent touch. Enjoy it before the cocktail to prepare the palate, or pour it directly into the glass for an even more festive version. Originally, the cocktail is served with Prosecco. But you can easily replace it with Crémant de Bourgogne or Champagne.
- The half passion fruit for visual appeal. As a garnish, it adds a fresh note and a touch of exoticism, whilst echoing the cocktail’s main flavour.
- A premium version of the Pornstar Martini. For a premium version of the Pornstar Martini, replace the vanilla-flavoured vodka with a high-quality vodka. For a hint of vanilla, add 2 cl of Briottet vanilla liqueur for an even more delicious result.
How to enjoy a Pornstar Martini?
The cocktail should be served well chilled: serve it in a pre-chilled martini glass.
The shot of Prosecco or Crémant de Bourgogne is served separately, in a small shot glass, to follow the traditional serving method.
A half-shell of fresh passion fruit as a garnish adds a visual touch and enhances the taste experience.
You can also offer a Virgin Passion Spritz (non-alcoholic) by replacing the liqueur with passion fruit syrup and the prosecco with sparkling apple juice, for an inclusive option.
From London glamour to sun-drenched beaches
Whilst the Pornstar Martini embodies the elegance and boldness of London nights, with its vanilla notes and chic fizz, there is another cocktail, just as iconic, that evokes the carefree spirit of holidays, warm sand and sunsets: the Sex on the Beach.
Why not start the evening with a Sex on the Beach, before moving on to a Pornstar Martini to round off the meal in style?