I like a good martini, especially before a big dinner. I think the reason why is because it whets my appetite. I will even admit to drinking them throughout dinner, depending on what I'm eating. Steak, for example, goes very well with a martini.
So this got me thinking. Admittedly, my knowledge is limited, but I don't know of another drink that is as dry and lacking in sweetness or sourness as a martini. And with the addition of an olive, you also get some salt. So my question is, what other drinks are there with the same taste profile as the classic gin martini? In particular, no sweet or sour flavors--only bitter, dry and perhaps salty.
Noshino
Two parts Shochu (barley based), one part Sake (Junmai preferably), stir, stir, stir, julep strain, chilled cocktail glass, cucumber slice
Awesome.
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Sounds incredible!
In that vain, junmai sake also makes an exceptional vesper. 1pt vodka (neutral, like Russian Standard Platinum,) 1 pt gin (London Dry, of your choice,) 1/2 pt Junmai Sake (pay for the quality, it matters!) Stirred. Cut a swath of lemon and bless. Rim 1/2 the glass with finely ground Himalayan Pink or Murray River salt.
May I also recommend stuffing your olives with bonito flakes? It will add a nice smoked overtone to the flavor profile. Just be sure to pick through and use the pieces that come from the sides only. The flakes that come from around the back tend to have a tougher texture. Could eat those all day...
A medium-rare filet and a Vesper. The James Bond and Pussy Galore of the culinary world. Thanks Ian Flemming and Flemming's Steak House.. Try this:
1.5 Oz Junipero gin, 3/4 oz Thatchers cucumber liquer, 1/2 Lillet, garnish with a cocktail onion.