The History of the Espresso Martini

Few cocktails are as famous and beloved as the Espresso Martini. So loved is this cocktail that it even has a special day set aside for its celebration. That’s right, every year on 15 March, people around the world celebrate Espresso Martini Day. Cheers to that!

Although it’s far from a traditional Martini, the Espresso Martini is certainly the best-known and most loved of all the contemporary Martinis. Year after year, the it takes the title as most popular cocktail. And that was even before Absolut and Kahlúa teamed up with singer Sabrina Carpenter for her Short n’ Sweet Tour in North America last year.

How and when was the Espresso Martini invented?

The invention of the Espresso Martini was the result of a spontaneous lightbulb moment by the late, legendary London bartender Dick Bradsell, who also created other iconic cocktails like the Bramble, the Treacle and the Russian Spring Punch.

“The story goes that in the mid-80s a supermodel walked up to Dick Bradsell and asked him for a drink in a manner we can’t repeat here,” shares Michael Bergström, Drinks Expert from Bartenders’ Choice Awards.

“The Bartender swiftly pulled a Fresh Espresso from the newly installed Coffee Machine in the bar and mixed it with Vodka, Kahlúa and a touch of Sugar. He then gave it a good shake and strained it into a Martini Glass, and just like that a modern classic was born.”

Today, the most common Espresso Martinis are made without Simple Syrup, however, how sweet the drink should be is, of course, up to the individual.

Garnishing an Espresso Martini

An Espresso Martini is traditionally garnished with three Coffee Beans, gently placed on top of the drink’s creamy head, which is said to symbolize health, wealth, and happiness.

Although it’s not uncommon to see an Espresso Martini garnished with just a single coffee bean.

Hedda Bruce, an Award-Winning Bar Manager in Sweden, suggests crushing a single Coffee Bean with your thumb and then sprinkling it on top of your drink.

Modern versions of the Espresso Martini

Since its invention around 1983, many variations of the Espresso Martini have appeared using flavored vodkas. And trust us, they’re incredible.

Absolut Vanilia adds a wonderful hint of creamy vanilla decadence, while Absolut Citron is a nod to southern Italy, where an Espresso is usually served with a piece of lemon zest.

Another wonderful variation is an Espresso Martini with Absolut Grapefruit with a splash of Fresh Squeezed Grapefruit Juice, which adds a wonderful juiciness and fruitiness.

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So, how you know the history behind this favorite cocktail, the question is, are ready to make THE ultimate Espresso Martini? Check out the recipe for a classic Espresso Martini.