Watermelon Martini

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

Crisp, sweet and cold, the Watermelon Martini is the perfect cocktail to see out the dog days of summer.

I’ve recently flown back from the East Coast to Los Angeles. After visiting my family for an extended and glorious period, it was time to hop on a plane and head home. When I hit the sky, the temperature was getting cooler. Folks were bemoaning the end of summer, but looking forward to the fall. Up in the air and sipping on some Aviation gin (of course), I reflected on a lovely and relaxing time with loved ones, but was looking forward to getting back to some more writing.

When you disembark at the airport in Burbank, you walk down a gangway and onto the tarmac, then toward the gate. Kind of like in the old movies, I love it. Except the day I landed. Los Angeles is currently going through a pretty gnarly heatwave, with temperatures up over a hundred. Going from cool, breezy climes and then stepping out into a furnace is a pretty striking hi, hello, and welcome home.

Right now, as far as Southern California is concerned, summer is far from over. In fact, it looks like it might stick around just a little longer for us, but hey, we moved out here for warmer weather, right? Since the heat is literally on, let’s make something cool to drink. And let’s have something that’s sweet, refreshing and strong. A Watermelon Martini fits the bill.

Not an actual martini – that would be gin or vodka with vermouth – tonight’s cocktail is closer to a vodka gimlet. That drink mixes said spirit, lime juice and simple syrup. Our drink replaces the syrup with fresh, seedless chopped watermelon, blended smooth and strained, giving the mixture a bright and fresh fruity flavor. As the summer wanes but the sultry, hot nights linger, a Watermelon Martini is good, cool company.

What is the Best Vodka to Use in a Watermelon Martini?

A crisp-tasting, unflavored vodka will meld best with the watermelon and lime notes. I used a Japanese Nikka Coffey distilled spirit in my drink, which I love and highly recommend. I’ve spoken of this vodka before, and haven’t had a problem finding it in some of the grocery and liquor stores around me, but if this isn’t an option for you, any decently priced brand will do just fine.

What kind of glassware and garnish are used?

Chill a martini glass for 15 to 30 minutes in your freezer before pouring yourself a drink. Garnish the rim with a fresh wedge of watermelon. Make sure it’s seedless, as you probably don’t want anything floating around in your cocktail.

Can any other ingredients be added to this recipe?

Mint is a fantastic optional addition to this recipe. Add some fresh sprigs to the blender with your watermelon to bring some extra brightness and refreshment to your fruit juice.

Similar Cocktails to the Watermelon Martini

The kids might be back in school, but the summer heat is sticking around to keep some of those vacation vibes going. Why not have a few cold cocktails to go along with them? The Watermelon Martini did indeed wet your whistle, putting you in the mood for more fruity, potent and satisfying tipples. Twist & Toast can show you what you didn’t know you were missing. All you have to do is try a few of these recipes out.

• Grapefruit Martini – Get tart and tangy with this robust and delicious concoction.
• Key Lime Martini – Have a slice of this favorite Florida pie for your next drink.
• Pineapple Martini – Let this ‘Tini take you on a tropical trip with the taste of pineapple.
• Appletini – This sweet-and-sour favorite is like liquid candy for adults.