The Martini is widely believed to have emerged in the late 1850s or early 1860s, with its precise origin being a subject of ongoing debate among cocktail historians.
The Elusive Origins of the Martini
While the exact birthdate and inventor of the iconic Martini remain somewhat mysterious, historical accounts and prominent theories converge on a specific period in the mid-19th century. The drink's journey from a simple mix to a global phenomenon is intertwined with the golden age of American bartending.
The Jerry Thomas Theory: A Prominent Account
One of the most frequently cited theories attributes the invention of the Martini to "Professor" Jerry Thomas, a famous and highly influential bartender of the 19th century. Thomas, renowned for his innovative approach to cocktails and his seminal work, How to Mix Drinks or The Bon Vivant's Companion (published in 1862), is believed to have created the drink at the Occidental Hotel in San Francisco. This creation is thought to have occurred sometime in the late 1850s or early 1860s.
Thomas's version, often seen as a precursor to the modern Martini, would have typically featured:
- Old Tom Gin: A slightly sweeter gin style popular at the time.
- Sweet Vermouth: Rather than the dry vermouth common today.
- Bitters: Often Boker's or Angostura.
- Maraschino Liqueur: A dash for sweetness and complexity.
- Lemon Peel: For aromatic garnish.
This formulation highlights a sweeter, richer profile compared to the crisp, dry Martinis favored today, indicating a clear evolution over time. Jerry Thomas's reputation as a pioneer in mixology lends significant weight to this origin story, solidifying the late 1850s or early 1860s as a key period for the Martini's genesis.
Other Influential Theories and Precursors
While the Jerry Thomas theory is robust, other accounts and earlier drink recipes may have influenced or contributed to the Martini's development. Understanding these precursors provides a richer context for its emergence.
| Origin Theory/Precursor | Alleged Inventor/Location | Timeframe | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jerry Thomas Martini | "Professor" Jerry Thomas, Occidental Hotel, San Francisco, USA | Late 1850s or early 1860s | Gin (Old Tom), sweet vermouth, bitters, maraschino, lemon peel |
| Martinez Cocktail | Jerry Thomas or Julio Richelieu, Martinez, California, USA | 1860s-1870s | Very similar to early Martini; gin, sweet vermouth, bitters, curaçao |
| Martini di Arma di Taggia | Martini & Rossi, Northern Italy | Late 19th century | While a vermouth brand, it contributed to the name's popularity rather than inventing the drink itself. |
The Martinez cocktail, often considered a direct ancestor, shares many ingredients with the early Martini, strengthening the idea that the drink evolved from simpler gin and vermouth concoctions of the era.
Evolution of the Martini Through the Decades
The Martini has undergone significant transformations since its likely debut in the late 1850s or early 1860s.
The Early 20th Century: Standardization and Popularity
As the 20th century dawned, the Martini began to shed its sweeter elements. Dry gin gained popularity, and the ratio of vermouth to gin started to shift, with bartenders gradually reducing the amount of vermouth. This period saw the Martini become a staple in high society and speakeasies during Prohibition.
- Shift to Dry Gin: Replaced Old Tom, leading to a crisper taste.
- Reduced Vermouth: The "dry" Martini started to gain traction.
- Standard Garnishes: Olives and lemon twists became the standard.
Post-Prohibition Era: The Dry Martini Emerges
After the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the Martini cemented its status as a sophisticated and widely enjoyed cocktail. The mid-20th century was the era of the extra-dry Martini, with some recipes calling for just a whisper of vermouth or even "waving the vermouth bottle over the gin." The drink became synonymous with elegance and power, heavily featured in literature and film.
The Modern Martini: Personalization and Revival
Today, the Martini continues to be a versatile and beloved drink. While the classic gin Martini remains paramount, vodka Martinis, espresso Martinis, and various flavored iterations showcase its adaptability. Bartenders and enthusiasts alike explore historical recipes and innovative twists, ensuring the legacy of the drink that emerged in the late 1850s or early 1860s endures.
