Five Easy, Festive Martinis to Serve for Holiday Celebrations
A classic cocktail with endless personal variations
Few drinks are as instantly recognizable as the martini. It has a sleek reputation, but it’s also famously individual—one of those orders that almost always invites a follow-up question. Bartender and author Kaitlyn Stewart (winner of the World Class Bartender of the Year competition and author of Three Cheers: Cocktails Three Ways; Classics, Riffs, and Zero-Proof Sips) notes that it’s rare to ask for “just a martini” without clarifying preferences. That’s because the martini’s identity is shaped by choices: vodka or gin, dirty or dry, shaken or stirred, and countless riffs that still feel true to the original.
At its simplest, a classic martini is made with vodka or gin and dry vermouth. From there, the possibilities expand quickly. For holiday hosting, at-home date nights, or welcoming the New Year, a handful of well-loved variations can give you an easy starting point—especially if you want something festive without needing a long list of specialty techniques.
Shaken vs. stirred: a practical guide for home bartenders
The debate over shaking versus stirring is part of martini lore, but the decision can be straightforward when you think about texture and ingredients. Classic martinis are typically stirred to maximize a velvety mouthfeel; shaking introduces air bubbles, which changes the texture. On the other hand, if your martini includes juice or dairy, it’s usually shaken to help combine the ingredients. Even so, there’s no hard-and-fast rule—martinis are meant to be enjoyed the way you want.
Five festive martini ideas to try
Below are five martini spins shared by bars and restaurants, each with a distinct personality. Some lean cozy and dessert-like, others bright and botanical, and one explores a modern savory technique. Use them as inspiration for your next celebration, whether you’re mixing for a crowd or making a single drink to toast the evening.
1) An upgraded espresso martini with Irish cream and cardamom
The espresso martini is already a party staple, and this version adds a small twist that changes the whole impression: a splash of Irish cream liqueur plus a sprinkle of cardamom. The result is positioned as a delicious way to keep the party going, with a flavor profile that reads a little more seasonal while staying familiar. The method is simple—shake all the ingredients—and the finishing touch is a garnish of espresso beans.
2) A tangy, refreshing “monster” martini with a green hue
Despite the playful name, there are no monsters involved. This cocktail is described as tangy and refreshing, and it earns its cheeky title from its green color. It’s also noted as best made with Scottish gin. If you’re looking for a martini variation that feels lively and a little unexpected on a holiday menu, the color alone can make it a conversation piece.
3) A pink martini that swaps dry vermouth for a rosé wine apéritif
One of the easiest ways to riff on a classic is to change a single key component. In this case, the dry vermouth is replaced with a rosé wine apéritif, such as Cocchi Rosa or Lillet Rosé. That swap gives the drink a subtle floral vibe and, naturally, a pretty pink hue. It’s a straightforward adjustment that still keeps the martini’s essential structure intact while making it feel celebratory.
4) A seasonal gin martini muddled with orange peel and rosemary
This rendition leans into aromatic, winter-friendly accents. Orange peel and rosemary are muddled with gin and dry vermouth, bringing hints of citrus and herb into the glass. The emphasis here is on sensory detail: aromatic garnishes help “drive the experience home.” If you enjoy martinis that feel crisp but layered, this approach highlights how a few fragrant elements can make a familiar drink feel new.
5) A savory martini using the fat-washing technique
For something more modern and indulgent, fat-washing offers a different kind of richness. The technique has become increasingly popular in bars across the country and, while it may sound unusual, it’s described as surprisingly simple: you combine a spirit with fat, let them sit together, and then strain out the fat. The payoff is a richer, more luxe flavor, showcased in a luscious savory martini.
How to choose the right martini for your celebration
When deciding which variation to serve, consider the mood and the moment. A coffee-forward espresso martini variation can suit late-night gatherings when you want the energy to stay high. A tangy, green gin-based drink can feel bright and playful. The rosé apéritif swap offers a subtle floral note and a festive color for toasts. The orange-and-rosemary muddle emphasizes aroma and seasonality. And the fat-washed savory style is ideal when you want a more luxurious, bar-style experience at home.
Whatever direction you choose, the martini remains a cocktail defined by preference. Whether you stir for that classic velvety texture or shake to fully integrate ingredients like juice or dairy, the best result is the one that matches how you like to drink it—especially during the holidays, when a small personal touch can make a simple cocktail feel like a celebration.