Tequila Espresso Martini

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

Tequila and espresso come together to make a very revved-up martini.

Everyone seems to be drinking espresso martinis nowadays. They’re all over social media and television. In the 2010s, the cocktail made a number of cameos on some of Bravo’s popular reality shows. Even Neil Patrick Harris, Doogie Howser himself, has a line of bottled and canned Espresso Martinis.

So is the Espresso Martini a 21st-century creation? Turns out, it was born in the raucous early 1980s of Soho, London, a creation of bartender Dick Bradsell. The popular myth goes that around 1983, either supermodel Kate Moss or Naomi Campbell would strut up to the bar and demand he make a drink that will “wake me up, then f— me up.” The result was the Espresso Martini and the rest is history. But is it true? Not really. It was neither Moss nor Campbell that the drink was made for, as both were nine and 13 years old at the time, respectively. According to cocktail historian Simon Difford in an article by GQ UK, it was “probably some obscure model no one’s ever heard of.”

My first experience with one took place a few years back. I am a guitarist in a rock band and playing a show one summer night in San Diego. On our way back to Los Angeles the next day, we stop off at a restaurant and grab a little breakfast. I am not driving, so I decide to indulge in a mid-morning tipple, but I also want something stronger than a mimosa. The waiter suggests a Tequila Espresso Martini. I say… well, I don’t quite remember what I said because the only memory that remains was how good that drink tasted. A smooth and peppery blend of blanco tequila and potent espresso was the perfect and fun alternative to your average latte. That drink left such an impression on me, we’re making it tonight. Get your shaker and espresso beans ready.

Is the Tequila Espresso Martini a Martini?

Technically, no. A traditional martini is gin and dry vermouth, with vodka being a popular substitute for the gin. The trend of calling many of these specialty drinks “martinis” mostly comes from the fact that they’re served in the iconic V-shaped cocktail glass.

What is the Best Tequila to Use in a Tequila Espresso Martini?

When mixing coffee and alcohol together, you want the flavors to complement each other and achieve that perfect balance. So for this cocktail, a good bottle of blanco tequila will fit the bill. Depending on the brand you choose, your cocktail can have spicy, peppery notes or something slightly sweeter and creamier.

What kind of glass and garnish is used?

You’ll feel elegant and caffeinated enjoying your cocktail in a chilled coupette or martini glass. Gently float three espresso beans atop your drink for good luck.

Can you use mezcal in place of the tequila?

Yes. In fact, this version of the cocktail is known as the La Vive.

Similar Drinks to the Tequila Espresso Martini

Martinis, martinis everywhere… which is never a bad thing. If you love traditional martinis (or their flavored counterparts) then look no further than Twist & Toast. We have a handsome collection of delicious and easy-to-make recipes for you to try at home, so check some of these out below, and don’t forget to explore the rest of the site.

• Espresso Martini – Learn to shake up the original version of this popular cocktail.
• Mind Eraser – It came from the ’80s! Too many of these and you won’t remember anything from any decade.
• Tequila Martini – A Southwestern spin on the classic gets whipped up with a little lemon juice for a sweeter and tart affair.
• Gin Martini – The timeless and iconic cocktail that has stood the test of time, as well as palates.