The Malty Dry Martini: A Twist on a Classic Cocktail

The Dry Martini is a timeless cocktail, renowned for its simplicity and sophistication. However, even classics can benefit from a creative twist. The Malty Dry Martini introduces a unique flavor profile, adding a subtle richness and depth that elevates the traditional drink to new heights. This is achieved by incorporating a hint of malt, which can be introduced in a few different ways, resulting in a drink that is both familiar and intriguingly different.

Understanding the Malty Element

The core of a Malty Dry Martini lies in the addition of a malty flavor, which can be achieved through different methods. The most common approach is to use a malty spirit, such as Oude Genever, a Dutch spirit that is a precursor to gin, which has a distinct malted character. Another method involves using malted milk powder, which adds a creamy, sweet, and malty note to the drink. However, this approach changes the texture and sweetness of the martini. It’s important to note that a true malty martini should not be confused with a chocolate malt martini, which typically uses chocolate liqueur or chocolate syrup.

Malted Spirits

Using a malty spirit is perhaps the most elegant way to achieve the desired flavor. Oude Genever provides a rich, complex base with notes of grain and subtle sweetness that complement the dry vermouth beautifully. When using genever, the key is to choose a high-quality brand that offers a smooth and balanced flavor profile.

Malted Milk Powder

Adding malted milk powder is another way to bring a malty dimension to the martini, though it alters the drink’s texture. When using malted milk powder, it is important to dissolve it properly, using a small amount of cream or milk. This approach delivers a creamy mouthfeel and a subtle sweetness. This method should be used sparingly and is not considered a classic Dry Martini variation.

The Base: Gin or Genever

While the traditional Dry Martini uses gin, the Malty Dry Martini can go beyond this by using Oude Genever.

Gin

For a more familiar take, using a London Dry Gin is still a good option. Look for gins with strong juniper notes, as this will provide a good counterpoint to the malty character. Some popular choices for martinis include:

• Sipsmith London Dry Gin: Known for its classic London Dry profile, with a good balance of juniper, citrus, and spice.
• Tanqueray No. 10: A citrus-forward gin, with notes of grapefruit, lime, and orange.
• The Botanist Islay Dry Gin: A more complex gin with notes of juniper, hay, and pears.
• Ford’s Gin: A classic London dry style gin with bright notes of pine, citrus, and coriander.
• KI NO BI Kyoto Dry Gin: A Japanese gin with notes of tea, spice and a nutty savoriness.

Oude Genever

For an authentic Malty Dry Martini, Oude Genever is the preferred choice. It provides a complex maltiness that gin simply can’t replicate. The best options are those that have been distilled and aged with care. When using Genever, a good option is to go with a traditional style, that uses a high malt content.

The Supporting Role: Dry Vermouth

Dry vermouth is an essential component of any Dry Martini and should be selected with consideration. It should be fresh and of high quality. Some popular brands include:

• Dolin Dry Vermouth: Known for its floral notes and subtle herbal character.
• Noilly Prat: A classic dry vermouth with a slightly more pronounced flavor profile.
• Cocchi Vermouth di Torino Extra Dry: A more modern option that offers a crisp, clean taste.

The vermouth choice should complement the chosen base spirit. For example, a floral vermouth works well with a citrus-forward gin, while a more herbaceous vermouth will stand up to the malty notes of genever.

Essential Ingredients for a Malty Dry Martini

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic Malty Dry Martini:

• Base Spirit: 60ml of either a London Dry Gin or Oude Genever.
• Dry Vermouth: 10-15ml of a good quality dry vermouth.
• Optional Bitters: A dash or two of orange bitters can add a layer of complexity.
• Garnish: Lemon twist or olives, depending on your preference.

For a version using malted milk powder, you’ll need:

• Base Spirit: 60ml of either a London Dry Gin or Oude Genever.
• Dry Vermouth: 10-15ml of a good quality dry vermouth.
• Malted Milk Powder: 1-2 teaspoons
• Cream or milk: 15ml to dissolve the powder.
• Optional Bitters: A dash or two of orange bitters can add a layer of complexity.
• Garnish: Lemon twist or olives, depending on your preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make a classic Malty Dry Martini using Oude Genever:

1. Chill your glass: Place your martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes to ensure it is thoroughly chilled.
2. Prepare the mixing glass: Fill a mixing glass with ice.
3. Add the spirits: Pour the Oude Genever and dry vermouth into the mixing glass.
4. Optional bitters: Add a dash or two of orange bitters for extra flavor, if desired.
5. Stir: Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds, ensuring it is well chilled.
6. Strain: Strain the mixture into the chilled martini glass.
7. Garnish: Add a lemon twist, expressing the oils over the drink, or add a few olives.
8. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy your Malty Dry Martini.

Here’s how to make a Malty Dry Martini using Malted Milk Powder:

1. Chill your glass: Place your martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes to ensure it is thoroughly chilled.
2. Prepare the shaker: Add the malted milk powder and cream or milk to a shaker and stir well to dissolve the powder.
3. Add ice and remaining spirits: Add ice, gin or genever and dry vermouth to the shaker.
4. Shake: Shake well for about 20 seconds.
5. Strain: Strain the mixture into the chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish: Add a lemon twist, expressing the oils over the drink, or add a few olives.
7. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy your Malty Dry Martini.

Variations

While the classic version is excellent, there are ways to experiment with this cocktail.

• Adjusting the Ratio: You can experiment with the ratio of spirit to vermouth to find your ideal balance. Some prefer a 5:1 ratio, while others prefer a more vermouth-forward 2:1 ratio.
• Smoky Malt: To add a smoky note, a rinse of peated Islay Scotch Whisky can be used in the glass before straining the martini.
• Bitters: Experiment with different bitters, like orange or even chocolate, to further enhance the flavor profile.

Serving and Enjoying

The Malty Dry Martini should be served immediately in a chilled martini glass. The drink is best enjoyed slowly, allowing the flavors to develop on your palate. Pair it with light appetizers or enjoy it as a sophisticated aperitif.

Conclusion

The Malty Dry Martini is an exciting take on a classic cocktail, offering a richer and more complex flavor profile. Whether you choose to use Oude Genever or experiment with malted milk powder, this variation is sure to impress and become a favorite for those seeking something beyond the traditional martini. By experimenting with ratios, bitters and garnishes, you can create a personalized experience that showcases the best of both the classic and modern approach to the martini.