The After-Dinner Cocktail: The Espresso Martini
Smooth, bold, and undeniably elegant — the Espresso Martini is the cocktail that bridges two worlds: coffee and spirits. With its rich crema top and aromatic depth, it’s a drink designed to awaken the senses.
Using Spirits With Smoke’s infusion kits, this classic becomes even more refined allowing you to infuse your vodka for a richer, more balanced finish. Whether you’re winding down an evening or sparking it back to life, this Espresso Martini delivers sophistication in every sip.
History
Born in the 1980s, the Espresso Martini quickly became a favorite for those who love coffee as much as cocktails. Originally created when a model asked for a drink that would “wake her up and mess her up,” the blend of espresso and vodka soon took the world by storm.
The Spirits With Smoke version honors that spirit while introducing a smoother, richer layer through infusion transforming a late-night classic into a mindful ritual of craft and flavor.
The Art of Infusion
How to Infuse Your Vodka
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Fill your infusion jar with up to 750 mL (26 oz) of vodka.
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Let it infuse for 2 days to develop a balanced, aromatic flavor.
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Squeeze and remove the tea bag to finish.
Your infused vodka will keep beautifully for months, ready to shake up your next perfect Espresso Martini.
Flavor Development
Infusing vodka enhances its smoothness while drawing out subtle, natural notes that complement the bold bitterness of espresso. The result? A perfectly balanced cocktail that’s velvety, aromatic, and endlessly drinkable.
Bar Tools Required
To craft your Espresso Martini like a pro, prepare:
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Shaker
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Strainer
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Coupe or Martini Glass
These tools allow you to achieve the signature frothy texture and silky presentation that define the perfect Espresso Martini.
Steps to Make Your Cocktail
Step 1: Chill your martini or coupe glass to ensure the drink stays crisp.
Step 2: In your shaker, combine 2 oz infused vodka, 1 oz water, and 1 oz simple syrup (optional for sweetness).
Step 3: Add ice and shake vigorously until frothy.
Step 4: Double strain into your chilled glass for a smooth finish.
Step 5: Garnish with three espresso beans a timeless symbol of health, wealth, and happiness.
Flavor Profile & Experience
The Espresso Martini is velvety and aromatic, with a perfect harmony of coffee richness and crisp vodka clarity. Each sip delivers a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that lingers beautifully, making it the ideal after-dinner indulgence.
Recommended Spirits
For the best flavor, choose a clean, crisp vodka such as:
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Iceberg Vodka
Its purity enhances the espresso’s bitterness while maintaining balance and smoothness in every pour.
Mocktail Option
For a zero-proof alternative, use cold-brew coffee as your base instead of vodka. Shake it with simple syrup and ice for a delicious, caffeine-forward treat that mirrors the look and feel of a true Espresso Martini, no alcohol required.
Mindful Consumption Note
Celebrate the ritual. Each step, the shake, the pour, the garnish is an invitation to slow down and appreciate craftsmanship. With Spirits With Smoke, every cocktail becomes more than a drink; it becomes a moment of reflection and refinement.
Conclusion
The Espresso Martini is the definition of sophistication: bold, smooth, and effortlessly balanced. By infusing your vodka with Spirits With Smoke’s kits and taking time to perfect your shake, you transform a beloved classic into something deeply personal. Enjoy it as a nightcap or a conversation starter and remember, never drink ordinary.
