Martini glass

THE ART OF THE MARTINI

Elizabeth Byrne

At Hudson Grace, we’re true martini lovers, captivated by this iconic cocktail that stands in a league of its own. The martini is the undisputed king of cocktails—frosty, austere, and all-alcohol, it’s been enchanting palates and imaginations for over a century. We love everything about martinis, from the classic cocktail itself to the perfect glass it’s served in. Here’s a quick look at the history, the glassware you’ll need, and the simple ingredients to make one of our all-time favorite drinks. Because really, what’s better than a bar full of martini glasses and a great martini to go with them?

Martini

“Happiness is…finding two olives in your martini when you’re hungry" - Johnny Carson

THE EVOLUTION OF AN ICON

The Martini glass has its roots in the 19th century, originally designed to keep your drink cool by preventing your hands from warming it. As the drink grew in popularity in the early 20th century, the glass evolved to enhance the cocktail experience. The conical shape, long stem, and wide rim aren’t just for show—they’re crafted to improve the flavor and presentation of your drink. The stem keeps your drink chilled, the wide brim lets the spirit breathe, and the angled sides ensure a perfect blend of flavors.

“I had never tasted anything so cool and clean. They made me feel civilized.” - Hemmingway



The origins of the Martini glass are steeped in mystery and legend. One story suggests that the wide rim was actually designed during Prohibition to allow for quick disposal of evidence during police raids at speakeasies, with its benefits for enhancing vodka or gin being an added bonus.


Whether this is fact or fiction, these tales only enhance the Martini glass's allure, cementing its status as a classic icon in cocktail culture.

Martini Glasses on Tray
STEMLESS VS. STEMMED: UNVEILING THE DIFFERENCE

Choosing between a stemmed and stemless glass comes down to personal preference. Stemmed glasses are classic, keeping your hand away from the bowl to maintain the chill of your drink. Stemless glasses, however, are practical and stable, making them great for casual gatherings. At Hudson Grace, we offer both options, so you can pick the style that fits your taste and needs.

MATERIAL MATTERS: GLASS VS. CRYSTAL

While both glass and crystal glasses serve the purpose, crystal adds an extra layer of luxury. Crystal glasses are thinner, enhancing the tactile experience of sipping your cocktail. They also refract light beautifully, adding a touch of glamour to your cocktail moments. 

GIN VS VODKA: DOES IT INFLUENCE THE GLASS CHOICE?

The choice between gin and vodka in your Martini does not dictate the glass, but it certainly influences the overall experience. A gin Martini, with its botanical notes, might benefit from a wider brim to allow the complex flavors to unfold. Conversely, a vodka Martini, known for its clarity, can shine in any glass, showcasing the purity of the spirit. Hudson Grace offers a stunning array of Martini glasses, inviting you to tailor your choice to your preferred Martini style.

FAMOUS MARTINI SIPPERS THROUGHOUT HISTORY
  • Winston Churchill preferred his with a simple twist of lemon
  • James Bond is known for his love of the "Vesper" (a mix of gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc), served in a classic glass with a lemon peel garnish. And of course - shaken, not stirred
  • Frank Sinatra had a well-known fondness for gin martinis, with a splash of water, served in a classic glass with a green olive garnish.
  • Carrie Bradshaw from "Sex and the City" often ordered cosmopolitans (a type of martini made with vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice) 
  • Audrey Hepburn enjoyed a simple gin martini with a lemon twist garnish.
SHAKEN OR STIRRED: DECODING THE RITUAL

The debate between shaken or stirred is as old as the cocktail itself. Stirred is known for its clarity and smoothness, preserving the spirit's integrity. Shaken introduces aeration, resulting in a slightly cloudier appearance. We have all essential bar tools to perfect both methods, ensuring your drink is pure perfection.


We also believe in making it easy to enjoy a delicious dirty martini at home. That's why we offer not only a range of glasses but also a tasty dirty olive juice. With our glasses and mixer, you can create a fantastic cocktail to share with friends and family.

HUDSON GRACE MARTINI RECIPES: CHEERS TO THE CLASSICS

HG CLASSIC VODKA MARTINI


2 oz premium vodka

1/2 oz dry vermouth

Garnish with a lemon twist or olive



HG CLASSIC GIN MARTINI


2 oz London Dry gin

1/2 oz dry vermouth

Garnish with a lemon twist or olive



Stir all ingredients over ice until chilled, about 30 seconds. Strain into chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or olives, depending on your taste.