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Dive into the world of the martini glass, the timeless icon of mixology. Discover the 10 must-try cocktails to serve in this legendary glass: from the Dry Martini to the Cosmopolitan, not forgetting the Espresso Martini or the Pornstar Martini. Recipes, stories and anecdotes — a complete guide to shine behind the bar.
Let’s be honest: if we had to crown the most beautiful glass in the history of mixology, the martini glass would win hands down. Its slender silhouette, conical bowl and delicate stem have stood the test of time with unmatched elegance. But make no mistake, it’s not just a beautiful table piece: it’s a true showcase, designed to enhance the most iconic cocktails.
Before diving into the list of 10 legendary cocktails that shine in this mythical glass, let’s pause for a moment on the essential question: why do we use the martini glass and what makes it so special? You’ll see, the answer is well worth it…
The martini glass: where does it come from and why is it so iconic?
The martini glass didn’t just appear by chance. Its conical shape and long stem trace back to the golden age of cocktails, in the early 20th century. Inspired by the champagne coupe, it established itself as the ideal vessel for drinks served “up” — meaning without ice in the glass, but well chilled thanks to shaking or stirring beforehand.
Its design isn’t just about elegance:
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The wide opening releases the aromas (perfect for catching the notes of a Dry Martini or a Cosmopolitan).
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The long stem lets you hold the glass without warming the cocktail, keeping it perfectly fresh.
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Its transparency and clean lines showcase the color and clarity of the mix.
It quickly became a cultural symbol. From Prohibition-era speakeasies to Hollywood film sets, all the way to James Bond’s hand, the martini glass has remained a timeless icon. And today, it’s still inseparable from the cocktails that built its legend.
Dry Martini
It’s the boss, the patriarch, the cocktail that gave its name to the glass. Born in the 19th century, popularized in the 1920s, it became a symbol of refinement. Minimalist, ice-cold, elegant… the Dry Martini is the very DNA of mixology.
- Origin: 19th century, the golden age of cocktails.
- Classic recipe: 60ml gin, 10ml dry vermouth, 1 green olive or lemon twist.
- Why it’s iconic: A symbol of purity and elegance, beloved by writers and gentlemen.
- Why in a martini glass: Its transparency and simplicity pair perfectly with this crystal-clear glass.
Espresso Martini
Created in 1983 by Dick Bradsell in London, the Espresso Martini revolutionized late nights out. Bold, frothy, energizing, it combines sophistication with caffeine.
- Origin: London, 1980s.
- Classic recipe: 50ml vodka, 30ml coffee liqueur, 30ml espresso, 10ml sugar syrup.
- Why it’s iconic: Because it wakes you up and gets you buzzed at the same time, perfect for long nights.
- Why in a martini glass: Its silky foam and the three decorative coffee beans shine in this coupe.
Cosmo
In the ’90s, you couldn’t turn on the TV without seeing a Cosmo in Sex and the City. Fruity, tangy, glamorous: it became the ultimate New York icon.
- Origin: Popularized by 1990s pop culture.
- Classic recipe: 40ml citrus vodka, 20ml triple sec, 30ml cranberry juice, 10ml lime juice.
- Why it’s iconic: A glamorous, urban cocktail, a symbol of style.
- Why in a martini glass: Its bright pink hue truly shines in this conical glass.
Pornstar Martini
A racy name but a fun, exotic cocktail. Vanilla vodka, passion fruit, a shot of champagne: it’s modern, colorful and irresistibly trendy.
- Origin: London, 2000s, by Douglas Ankrah.
- Classic recipe: 50ml vanilla vodka, 20ml passion fruit liqueur, 50ml passion fruit purée, a shot of champagne.
- Why it’s iconic: It’s fun, exotic, and perfect for Instagram.
- Why in a martini glass: Its tropical color and the half passion fruit on top stand out beautifully.
French Martini
Vodka, raspberry liqueur, pineapple juice: a smooth, fruity blend that brings a “French touch” to the 1980s.
- Origin: New York, 1980s.
- Classic recipe: 40ml vodka, 20ml raspberry liqueur, 40ml pineapple juice.
- Why it’s iconic: A fruity, modern twist that won over trendy bars.
- Why in a martini glass: Its pale pink color and light foam look stunning.
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Vodka Martini
“Shaken, not stirred”… A legendary line. The Vodka Martini is cold, sharp and unyielding, just like 007.
- Origin: Popularized in Casino Royale.
- Classic recipe: 60ml vodka, 10ml dry vermouth, olive or twist.
- Why it’s iconic: Because it’s linked to the world’s most famous secret agent.
- Why in a martini glass: Its icy clarity shines in the slender coupe.
Lemon Drop Martini
A liquid candy. Sweet, tangy, lively… and always served in a sugar-rimmed glass.
- Origin: San Francisco, 1970s.
- Classic recipe: 40ml vodka, 20ml lemon juice, 15ml triple sec, 10ml sugar syrup.
- Why it’s iconic: Because it combines freshness and indulgence.
- Why in a martini glass: The sugared rim and lemony brightness are enhanced by this glass.
Appletini
Flashy, fruity, and totally unapologetic. A ’90s cocktail that hasn’t lost any of its fun.
- Origin: Hollywood, 1990s.
- Classic recipe: 40ml vodka, 20ml green apple liqueur, 10ml lemon juice.
- Why it’s iconic: Its sweetness and electrifying green color.
- Why in a martini glass: Its tangy hue captivates instantly.
Gibson
A variation on the Dry Martini, it stands out with a surprising garnish: a small pickled onion.
- Origin: Late 19th century, attributed to Charles Dana Gibson.
- Classic recipe: 60ml gin, 10ml dry vermouth, small pickled white onion.
- Why it’s iconic: A bold and subtle twist on the classic martini.
- Why in a martini glass: The perfect clarity highlights the little onion pearl.
Chocolate Martini
A beautiful, sweet and indulgent finish. Vodka, chocolate, cream… a liquid dessert in a martini glass.
- Origin: 1990s.
- Classic recipe: 50ml vodka, 20ml cocoa liqueur, 20ml cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Why it’s iconic: A perfect blend of cocktail and dessert.
- Why in a martini glass: The swirls of chocolate syrup elegantly decorate the conical interior.
So, an ice-cold Dry Martini English-gentleman style, a Cosmo New York-90s style, or an Espresso Martini to keep you going all night long? Whatever you choose, remember one thing: the martini glass remains your best style ally with every sip. And if you really want to play in the pros’ league, check out our selection of martini glasses directly at Shop — because an iconic cocktail always deserves a showcase worthy of it.
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