The Espresso Martini is a must-try cocktail for lovers of coffee and mixology. Intense, indulgent and elegant all at once, it combines the aromatic intensity of a freshly brewed espresso with vodka and the sweetness of a coffee liqueur. Discover the recipe for the Espresso Martini made with Briottet coffee liqueur, followed by a indulgent variation created using Briottet vanilla liqueur, the latest creation from Maison Briottet.
The Espresso Martini in a nutshell
- Cocktail type: short cocktail
- Family: vodka and coffee-based cocktails
- Origin: London, United Kingdom
- Created by: generally attributed to Dick Bradsell, in the 1980s
- Served in: cocktail glass or Martini glass
- Flavour profile: coffee, roasted, sweet, intense and slightly bitter
The origins of the Espresso Martini
The history of the Espresso Martini began in London in the 1980s. Its creation is generally attributed to the British barman Dick Bradsell, who was working behind the bar at Fred’s Club in the Soho district at the time.
As is often the case in the history of cocktails, the story has a touch of legend about it. Dick Bradsell recounts that a young woman asked him for a cocktail that would wake her up whilst giving her enough kick to carry on with her evening. The espresso machine and the aroma of coffee near the bar are said to have inspired the barman.
His idea was to combine vodka – which was very popular at the time – with a freshly brewed espresso. The recipe then evolved with the addition of coffee liqueur and a touch of sweetness to balance the bitterness and intensity of the coffee.
The cocktail quickly became a hit under the name Vodka Espresso, before evolving into the Espresso Martini. Despite its name, it is not strictly speaking a classic Martini: its name refers to the cocktail glass in which it is served and to the ‘neo-martini’ trend of the time.
Dick Bradsell is also associated with several cocktails that have become iconic in modern mixology, notably the Bramble. Thus, the Espresso Martini is part of this generation of signature cocktails that have gradually joined the ranks of the great international classics.
Vanilla Espresso Martini: a indulgent twist by Briottet
How about adding a new dimension to the Espresso Martini?
Briottet’s vanilla liqueur, a new creation from Maison Briottet, allows you to imagine a sweeter, rounder and more indulgent version of this great classic.
Vanilla complements the roasted notes of the coffee perfectly. It adds smooth, slightly pastry-like notes, whilst retaining the cocktail’s distinctive character.
The secrets to a perfect Espresso Martini
Use a freshly brewed espresso
The coffee forms the aromatic heart of the cocktail. Opt for a freshly brewed espresso to preserve its aromas, freshness and strength.
Shake vigorously
The famous ‘shake’ isn’t just a step to chill the drink. Don’t overlook it: it plays a direct role in creating the frothy texture that characterises the Espresso Martini. The more vigorously you shake, the lighter the cocktail’s texture will be and the more even the froth.
Serve immediately
Once strained, the Espresso Martini must be served straight away to make the most of its temperature, aromas and foam.
Pay attention to presentation
Three coffee beans placed on top of the foam are the traditional finishing touch for the Espresso Martini. A simple garnish that immediately brings to mind the cocktail’s main ingredient.
FAQ – Espresso Martini
What goes into an Espresso Martini?
The basic recipe for an Espresso Martini usually combines vodka, espresso and coffee liqueur. The proportions are 4 cl of vodka, 2.5 cl of Briottet coffee liqueur and 3 cl of freshly brewed espresso.
Why is this cocktail called an ‘Espresso Martini’?
Despite its name, the Espresso Martini does not contain Martini, the Italian vermouth. Its name is part of the ‘neo-martini’ cocktail trend that emerged in London in the 1980s and refers in particular to the fact that it is served in a Martini-style cocktail glass.
Who created the Espresso Martini?
The creation of the Espresso Martini is generally attributed to the British barman Dick Bradsell, in London, in the early 1980s.
Can you make an Espresso Martini with vanilla?
Yes. Vanilla liqueur pairs particularly well with the roasted aromas of coffee. Simply add 2 to 3 cl of Briottet vanilla liqueur to the original recipe.
What sort of coffee should you use for an Espresso Martini?
A freshly brewed espresso is recommended. It provides a more intense aromatic profile and contributes to the cocktail’s texture and foam.
How long should you shake an Espresso Martini?
A vigorous shake for about 10 seconds with plenty of ice cubes quickly chills the cocktail and helps to create its foam.
Key facts about the Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini has become a classic in the world of mixology thanks to a simple yet effective combination: vodka, coffee and coffee liqueur.
With the new Briottet vanilla liqueur, Briottet offers a more indulgent take on this iconic cocktail, where the vanilla complements the intense, roasted notes of the coffee.