French Martini Recipe

A French Martini is a delightful blend of vodka, pineapple juice, and Chambord, offering a perfect balance of fruity and sweet flavors. This chic cocktail was created in the late 1980s for New York City’s Balthazar restaurant. Its immediate success saw it quickly become a global favorite.

Chambord, a raspberry liqueur, adds a rich, berry edge to the drink, enhancing the tropical notes of the pineapple juice. This combination makes the French Martini a refreshing and sophisticated choice. The simple yet elegant ingredients make it easy for you to recreate at home.

Equipment

To make a French Martini, you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Cocktail shaker: A must for mixing the ingredients.
• Strainer: Ensures a smooth pour without ice chunks.
• Jigger: For accurate measurements.
• Martini glass: To serve the cocktail elegantly.

These basic tools will help you prepare the French Martini effectively and with ease.

Ingredients

The French Martini requires:

• Vodka: 2 oz. Any quality brand will work.
• Pineapple juice: 1 oz, fresh if possible.
• Chambord: ½ oz, a raspberry liqueur.
• Ice: Essential for chilling the cocktail.
• Raspberry: For garnish.

These ingredients combine to create the sweet and fruity flavor the French Martini is known for.

Instructions

1. Measure the ingredients: 2 oz vodka, 1 oz pineapple juice, and ½ oz Chambord.
2. Combine them in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 5-8 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a raspberry on a pick.

Follow these steps to make a perfect French Martini every time.

Tasting Notes

The French Martini is sweet and fruity. The vodka provides a neutral base. Pineapple juice adds a tropical note. Chambord introduces a raspberry flavor. The result is well-balanced. The garnish adds a fresh finish.

Every sip is light and refreshing. Ideal for those who enjoy sweeter cocktails.

Similar Cocktails

If you enjoy the French Martini, you might like:

• Cosmopolitan: Uses vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime.
• Appletini: A sweet, apple-flavored vodka martini.
• Raspberry Lemon Drop: Combines vodka, lemon juice, and Chambord.

These cocktails offer different flavors but share a similar appeal.

History

The French Martini was created in the late 1980s. Keith McNally’s New York City bar Balthazar popularized it. The cocktail became a hit in the 1990s. It helped start the “flavored martini” trend.

Ads in bartending magazines further boosted its popularity.

Quick Pro Tips

• Use fresh pineapple juice for the best flavor.
• Chill your martini glass beforehand to keep the drink cold.
• Garnish creatively: A lemon twist or pineapple slice can add flair.

These tips ensure your French Martini is both delicious and visually appealing.

When to Serve

The French Martini is versatile. Serve it at:

• Cocktail parties: Its fruity taste is a crowd-pleaser.
• Brunch: A refreshing option alongside breakfast foods.
• Dinner parties: Great as an aperitif.

Its balance of sweetness and fruitiness makes it suitable for various occasions.