The Martinez

The Martinez is a classic cocktail that originated in the 1860s and is often considered a predecessor of the Martini. Often referred to as a "forgotten classic," it faded into obscurity over the decades but has recently undergone a renaissance. The Martinez is typically made with Gin, sweet Red Vermouth, Luxardo Maraschino Originale, and bitters such as Angostura or Orange Bitters. The cocktail has a rich history and is reportedly named after the town of Martinez in California, where it was supposedly invented by a bartender named Julio Richelieu. As with many classic cocktails, there are different versions of the story. Some say the cocktail was named after a man named Martinez who ordered it in San Francisco, while others claim it was named after a racehorse named Martinez that was famous in the United States in the 1860s. Regardless of its precise origin, the Martinez is a delicious and sophisticated cocktail that is often appreciated by seasoned bartenders and cocktail aficionados.