Chambord, vodka, and pineapple juice are all you need to give yourself the gift of a French Martini.
A Gin Martini is a classic, no doubt about it. Having been around for decades -some even say since the 1860s- and popularized even more during the 1950s and 1960s through the Rat Pack and James Bond, it’s one of those drinks that is guaranteed to never fall out of favor. Even the Vodka Martini, the ever-present variation of the iconic gin-based original, remains as popular as ever, thanks in part to a certain gentleman spy.
As much as I love a cold and crisp Gin or Vesper Martini, many of my friends unfortunately do not. Some don’t like how they taste, while others think them to be too strong. One thing they all had in common was a thirst for something sweet. Thankfully for them, the 1990s have come to the rescue.
During that decade, a number of bartenders and mixologists came up with a whole series of ‘Tini-inspired tipples. I say “inspired” because none of those beverages could be considered an “official” Martini, as none of them contain vermouth. Technically, a Martini in the traditional sense is gin and dry vermouth, with vodka being an admired, if not controversial variation. Many spirit sommeliers, mixologists and bartenders only consider gin and vermouth to be a Martini, the rest just co-opt the name and glassware.
Even if the French Martini isn’t considered an “official” ‘Tini, it still tastes delicious while looking just as elegant.
What Is The Best Vodka To Use In a French Martini?
While you can sweeten your tipple up a bit by using a raspberry or other fruity-flavored vodka, my suggestion is to go with an unflavored variety. It will allow the pineapple juice and black raspberry notes from the Chambord to work with the vodka in a wonderfully balanced way.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces vodka
- 1 ounce pineapple juice
- 1/2 ounce raspberry liqueur e.g. Chambord raspberry liqueur
- Raspberries to garnish
Instructions
- Add ice to your cocktail shaker.
- Pour the vodka, pineapple juice, and Chambord into the shaker.
- Give the ingredients a vigorous shake and strain into a martini glass.
- Garnish with a couple of raspberries.
Nutrition
What glassware and garnish are used?
Chill a martini glass or coupe in your freezer for 15 to 30 minutes. Pour your freshly shaken French Martini in and garnish with a few plump and juicy raspberries, skewered on a cocktail sword.
Is it necessary to use Chambord?
You can use other brands of raspberry liqueur if you prefer. Part of what makes a French Martini “French” is the use of Chambord, which hails from the Loire Valley of France.
Similar Cocktails to the French Martini
You love the image of a Martini, but aren’t wild about their potency or taste. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. One of the reasons the “cocktails as a martini” craze came about was that enough people preferred a sweeter, easier-to-drink libation that still kept the sophisticated look of the classic and iconic drink. If you’re looking for something fun and tasty to serve at your next soirée, let Twist & Toast help you out with a few recipe ideas.
- Watermelon Martini – The perfect poolside companion is this sweet and crisp ‘Tini.
- Pumpkin Espresso Martini – An autumnal spin on the caffeinated favorite.
- Grapefruit Martini – Tart and tangy, this ‘Tini is sure to satisfy.
- Porn Star Martini – Sweet, fruity and sparkling, this naughty named cocktail is another popular favorite.
Very interesting, I’m a bartender I’ll try this recipe to my customers. Thank you.
Hope they enjoy this recipe! Thanks for reading.