The espresso martini seems to be all the rage these days, so we thought it was the perfect February cocktail to give you a little pick-me-up in this chilly weather. While it may not be the most popular drink amongst bartenders– and isn’t even a real martini— it’s certainly the perfect cocktail for coffee lovers!
Photo via Adobe stock images
While the original includes real espresso, I’ve seen the espresso martini made in a variety of ways, from instant coffee to cold brew concentrate to Baileys Irish Cream to just plain ol’ strong coffee. You really can pick your path when it comes to the espresso martini, but we’re holding true to the original vision here.
Our version, brought to you by our resident bartender, Rob Harrah, is called the Espresso Ricomincia, which means “Espresso Restart” in Italian. Containing fresh espresso rather than coffee liqueur or any of the other options, this martini packs a big coffee punch mixed with some delicious creaminess and rich texture from all the liqueurs.
Warning: Although it’s a popular dinner drink, it obviously contains actual coffee with caffeine and may keep you up at night!
Since you need an espresso maker to create this particular recipe, you can make your own shot of espresso– or plan ahead to pick up a cup at your local coffee house if you don’t have an espresso machine. If you make your own, account for a little more prep time before you’re ready to serve your final cocktail, especially to allow the coffee to cool.
Photo by Nathan Mullet via Unsplash
We’re featuring Black Momma Vodka in our recipe, but you can of course use your favorite vodka that you already have on hand. But if you haven’t tried it, definitely pick up a bottle of Black Momma ASAP!
Ready to make your own delicious coffee cocktail?
ESPRESSO MARTINI RECIPE
INGREDIENTS:
1 oz Black Momma Vodka
1 oz Amaro Nonino
1/2 oz Nocino Black Walnut Liqueur
1/2 oz Disaronno Velvet Cream Liqueur
1 1/2 oz Espresso Coffee
Garnish: Three Espresso Beans
DIRECTIONS:
Build in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until mixed and chilled (about 10-15 secs). Strain into a coupe cocktail glass (or martini glass if you feel strongly about it– we personally prefer coupes for a variety of reasons).
Photo by Anastasiia Chepinska via Unsplash
What do you think of this take on the espresso martini? Do you have a favorite recipe of your own? Share with us in the comments, or come join us in our Craft Cocktail Club on Facebook. We’d love to hear what you’ve been serving up during these winter months and what you’re looking forward to drinking in the spring!
And of course, don’t forget that we sell all the barware you need to make any cocktail or mocktail your heart could desire! Check out our shop to pick up all the bar tools you need for your own home bar.
Until next time, stay warm… and cheers!
We’re just a bunch of regular people who love making classy drinks. Join us!
