National Martini Day, celebrated on June 19, invites enthusiasts to explore the rich history and varied flavors of the martini. Originally known as “The Martinez,” the martini traces its roots back to the California Gold Rush town of Martinez. It has since evolved from its early concoction of wine, gin, and an olive to include a myriad of flavors that cater to every palate.
The timeline of the martini’s rise to fame begins in the 1880s when the first recipe was published in the “Bartender’s Manual.” By 1882, the martini had begun to morph into what was known as the Manhattan, blending spirits with vermouth. The vodka martini made its debut in 1951, appearing in the cocktail recipe book “Bottoms Up.”
During the 1960s, the martini cemented its place in American culture through the three-martini lunch, a staple for cosmopolitan executives. This June 19, take a moment to savor a new martini variation and channel your inner international spy of mystery. Whether you prefer it dry, dirty, shaken, or not stirred, there’s a martini for everyone on this special day.
