The lights twinkle, music resonates, conversations come alive. The holiday season is in full swing, and with it comes the need for a cocktail that embodies both the energy and elegance of the season. Enter the Espresso Martini: this iconic cocktail that marries the sophistication of a martini glass with the comforting intensity of specialty coffee.
Born in the 1980s in London's trendy bars, the Espresso Martini has conquered the world with its perfect balance between energy and pleasure. Its creamy foam, deep caramel color, and three coffee beans delicately floating on the surface make it a true visual spectacle before the first sip.
This cocktail is more than just a drink: it's a complete sensory experience, a festive ritual that transforms every evening into a memorable celebration.
Whether you want to impress your guests at a holiday party, extend the ambiance after a hearty meal, or simply savor a moment of pure indulgence, the Espresso Martini is your perfect ally.
The fascinating history of the Espresso Martini
Every great cocktail has its founding myth, and the Espresso Martini is no exception. Its creator, legendary London bartender Dick Bradsell, invented this concoction in the early 1980s at the Soho Brasserie.
Legend has it that a young model approached the bar and asked: "Can you make me something that will wake me up and then f*** me up?" Bradsell, ever creative, then mixed fresh vodka, hot espresso, Kahlúa coffee liqueur, and a touch of sugar syrup.
Initially named "Vodka Espresso," the cocktail was renamed "Espresso Martini" in the 1990s when the "...tini" trend (Appletini, Cosmopolitan, etc.) invaded bars worldwide. Despite the complete absence of vermouth or gin, the name stuck, probably thanks to its iconic V-shaped glass.
The Espresso Martini represents the spirit of the 1980s and 1990s: the energy of London's nightlife, the audacity to mix seemingly incompatible worlds, and that constant search for casual sophistication that characterized the era.
Today, more than 40 years after its creation, this cocktail is experiencing a spectacular resurgence in popularity, particularly on social media where its photogenic presentation makes it a true star.
Why is the Espresso Martini the perfect holiday cocktail?
The holiday season means long evenings, hearty meals, lively conversations... and sometimes, fatigue that threatens to shorten the festivities. This is precisely where the Espresso Martini becomes your best ally.
The perfect balance between energy and pleasure
Unlike a classic digestif that gently sends you toward the couch, the Espresso Martini offers a welcome boost thanks to its caffeine dose. Vodka brings comforting warmth that warms the spirit during winter evenings, while coffee liqueur and syrup balance everything with velvety sweetness.
A spectacular presentation
In the cocktail universe, few can rival the visual impact of a perfectly executed Espresso Martini. Its dense, creamy foam, golden beige, topped with three coffee beans arranged in a triangle, immediately evokes luxury and refinement. It's the ultimate Instagram cocktail, but above all, it's a feast for the eyes before being a delight for the palate.
Festive versatility
The Espresso Martini adapts to all moments of your celebrations:
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As an aperitif: to start the evening with energy and sophistication
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Between courses: as an elegant intermezzo
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As an energizing digestif: to extend conversations after the meal
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Late evening: for night owls who refuse to see the party end
The glamour factor
Holding a martini glass immediately evokes James Bond, Hollywood parties, and timeless chic. The Espresso Martini amplifies this effect with its deep color and creamy texture. It's the cocktail that instantly transforms any evening into a memorable event.
Essential ingredients for an exceptional Espresso Martini
The quality of an Espresso Martini relies entirely on its ingredients. No room for compromise here: each component plays a crucial role in the final balance.
Espresso: the heart of the cocktail
Coffee choice is decisive. For an Espresso Martini that stands out, opt for a specialty espresso coffee with a rich and balanced aromatic profile. At 94 Celcius, our espresso roasted coffees offer this perfect combination of body, sweetness, and aromatic complexity.
Ideal characteristics:
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Chocolaty and caramelized notes
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Round body without excessive bitterness
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Moderate acidity that brings liveliness
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Dense crema to contribute to the cocktail's foam
Our signature blends like Covalent or Orbitales are particularly suited to this recipe. To understand how to extract the best possible espresso, consult our guide on how to make good coffee.
Important: The espresso must be freshly prepared and slightly cooled (not cold, not boiling). Espresso that's too hot will melt the ice too quickly and give a diluted cocktail.
Vodka: the spirit base
Choose premium quality vodka. No need for the most expensive, but avoid cheap vodkas that would bring unpleasant harshness. Good quality neutral vodka lets the coffee express itself while providing structure and alcohol.
Quantity: 50 ml (1.5 oz) per cocktail
Coffee liqueur: the sweet touch
Kahlúa is the classic liqueur, but other options exist: Tia Maria, Mr. Black (for coffee purists), or local artisan coffee liqueur. This component brings sweetness, depth, and reinforces coffee notes.
Quantity: 20-25 ml (0.75 oz) per cocktail
Simple syrup: the balancer
A 1:1 cane sugar syrup (equal proportions of sugar and water) sweetens everything without masking flavors. Some recipes omit it if the coffee liqueur is already very sweet, but we recommend including a small amount for optimal balance.
Quantity: 10-15 ml (0.5 oz) per cocktail
Garnishes: the final touch
Three coffee beans, arranged in a triangle at the center of the foam, are the visual signature of the Espresso Martini. Use quality whole beans, ideally recently roasted for their shine.
The authentic Espresso Martini recipe
Now that you know the importance of each ingredient, let's move on to execution. Technique is as important as component quality.
Ingredients (for 1 cocktail)
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50 ml (1.5 oz) premium vodka
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30 ml (1 oz) freshly prepared espresso (slightly cooled)
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20 ml (0.75 oz) coffee liqueur (Kahlúa or equivalent)
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10 ml (0.5 oz) simple syrup
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Ice (whole cubes for the shaker)
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3 coffee beans for garnish
Required equipment
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Cocktail shaker (Boston shaker or three-piece shaker)
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Jigger (cocktail measure)
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Fine strainer
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Chilled martini glass
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Espresso machine or alternative method for concentrated coffee
Detailed instructions
1. Prepare the espresso Extract a double espresso (about 60 ml) and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. It should be lukewarm, not burning hot. Espresso that's too hot will compromise the cocktail's texture.
2. Chill your glass Place your martini glass in the freezer 10 minutes before serving, or fill it with ice and cold water during preparation. A cold glass maintains the cocktail at ideal temperature longer.
3. Assemble ingredients in the shaker In the shaker, pour in order:
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Vodka (50 ml)
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Cooled espresso (30 ml)
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Coffee liqueur (20 ml)
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Simple syrup (10 ml)
4. Add ice Fill the shaker three-quarters full with whole ice cubes. Ice plays two roles: cooling the cocktail and creating the emulsion that will give that characteristic foam.
5. Shake vigorously This is the crucial step. Shake energetically for 15-20 seconds. You should feel the shaker become icy in your hands. This intense agitation creates the creamy foam that makes the Espresso Martini's signature.
Barista tip: Shake with broad, rhythmic movements rather than small rapid movements. The goal is to create maximum turbulence to emulsify coffee oils with alcohol.
6. Strain and serve Empty the water from the martini glass if it was chilling. Use a fine strainer (double strain) to filter the cocktail into the glass. This double filtration ensures smooth foam without ice chunks.
7. Garnish Gently place three coffee beans on the foam surface, forming a triangle. Serve immediately.
Barista tips for a perfect Espresso Martini
Mastering the basics is one thing, but these professional tips will take your Espresso Martini to the next level.
Temperature is critical
An Espresso Martini that's too cold loses aromas, too hot becomes diluted. The espresso should be lukewarm (about 40-50°C) before entering the shaker. Let it cool for 2-3 minutes after extraction.
"Dry shake" for maximum foam
Advanced technique: before adding ice, shake all liquid ingredients for 5 seconds without ice (dry shake). Then add ice and shake normally. This double agitation creates even denser and more velvety foam.
Coffee freshness is non-negotiable
Always use freshly roasted coffee. Stale coffee will give a flat Espresso Martini without depth. Our 94 Celcius coffees are roasted on demand to guarantee optimal freshness. To explore our origins, discover our Club Expé which delivers exclusive coffees each month.
The importance of double straining
Always use a fine strainer in addition to the shaker strainer. Small broken ice pieces would ruin the cocktail's silky texture.
Adjusting proportions
The given recipe is a balanced starting point. Don't hesitate to adjust according to your preferences:
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More coffee liqueur for more sweetness
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Less syrup if you prefer a less sweet cocktail
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A ristretto espresso for more intensity
Service timing
The Espresso Martini must be served and consumed immediately after preparation. The foam begins to collapse after a few minutes, and the cocktail warms up quickly.
Creative variations to surprise your guests
The classic Espresso Martini is timeless, but these variations bring a personal touch to your festivities.
Bailey's Espresso Martini
Replace part of the coffee liqueur with Bailey's Irish Cream (15 ml each). The result is creamier, sweeter, with vanilla and Irish whiskey notes. Perfect for those who find the original version too intense.
Spiced Espresso Martini
Add a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg to the shaker before shaking. Christmas spices marry wonderfully with coffee and create an aromatic profile that instantly evokes the holidays.
Chocolate Espresso Martini
Add 10 ml of chocolate liqueur (Godiva, Mozart) or a dash of crème de cacao. Garnish with cocoa powder dusted on the foam. This dessert version is ideal after a hearty meal.
White Espresso Martini (Reverse Martini)
Use white rum or tequila blanco instead of vodka. Rum brings sugarcane notes, tequila a surprising vegetal touch. Pair with our single-origin coffees with fruity profiles.
Iced Espresso Martini (summer version)
Double the espresso, omit the syrup, and serve over crushed ice in a lowball glass rather than a martini glass. Garnish with whipped cream. Transforms the cocktail into a refreshing drink for summer celebrations.
Non-alcoholic Espresso Martini (Mocktail)
Replace vodka with sparkling water (30 ml) and coffee liqueur with concentrated homemade coffee syrup. Add 10 ml vanilla syrup for roundness. Double the espresso to compensate for the absence of alcohol. This version allows everyone to enjoy the experience.
Pairings with holiday desserts
The Espresso Martini isn't just a standalone cocktail: it pairs admirably with traditional holiday desserts.
Chocolate Yule log The classic pairing. The chocolate notes of the log amplify those of the coffee, creating perfect harmony. The cocktail's subtle bitterness cuts through the dessert's richness.
Tiramisu Meta-pairing: a coffee dessert accompanied by a coffee cocktail. Creamy textures respond to each other, creating an ultra-indulgent experience.
Pecan pie The pie's caramelized notes find an echo in the syrup and coffee liqueur. The cocktail brings the liveliness that balances the dessert's sweet sweetness.
Brownies or chocolate fondant Coffee naturally intensifies chocolate taste. An Espresso Martini alongside a warm brownie creates a moment of pure chocolate-coffee pleasure.
Vanilla panna cotta Interesting contrast: the panna cotta's neutral sweetness highlights the cocktail's aromatic complexity. Add caramel coulis to complete the experience.
German stollen or Italian panettone These spiced cakes with candied fruits pair surprisingly well with the Espresso Martini, especially in its spiced version. Cinnamon and cardamom notes create an aromatic bridge.
Create the perfect Espresso Martini experience
The Espresso Martini embodies everything a festive drink should be: visually spectacular, delicious to taste, energizing in effects, and sophisticated enough to leave a lasting impression.
The key to success lies in three elements:
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Exceptional coffee: Never underestimate the impact of quality espresso. Our espresso coffees are roasted with the precision and care that guarantee optimal extraction.
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Technique: Shake vigorously, strain properly, serve immediately. These gestures make the difference between a correct cocktail and a memorable Espresso Martini.
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Presentation: Ritual matters as much as result. Prepare the cocktail in front of your guests if possible, transform each step into a show.
Explore our complete range of specialty coffees to find the one that will sublimate your Espresso Martinis. Also discover our other coffee cocktail recipes to vary pleasures during your festivities.
For enthusiasts who want to always have freshly roasted coffee on hand, our coffee subscriptions guarantee never running out of exceptional beans for your creations.
Cheers, and may every Espresso Martini you prepare become a moment of celebration!
Frequently asked questions
Can you prepare Espresso Martini in advance?
Unfortunately, the Espresso Martini doesn't lend itself well to advance preparation. The characteristic foam collapses quickly and the cocktail loses its visual and taste integrity. However, you can prepare the espresso in advance (stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours), measure your ingredients in separate containers, and chill your glasses. When serving, all that's left is to assemble, shake, and serve (about 30 seconds per cocktail).
What's the difference between Espresso Martini and coffee martini?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but technically, the Espresso Martini uses authentic freshly prepared espresso, while a generic "coffee martini" could use ordinary cold coffee or even instant coffee. The difference in quality and texture is significant. Espresso brings intensity, crema, and aromatic complexity impossible to reproduce with ordinary coffee.
Can you make an Espresso Martini without an espresso machine?
Yes, several alternatives exist. The best option is to use very concentrated coffee prepared with an Italian coffee maker (Moka pot), which produces a strong extraction similar to espresso. You can also use concentrated cold brew (double the usual amount of coffee), although the aromatic profile is different. As a last resort, very strong filter coffee works, but reduce the syrup amount slightly to compensate for the less intense extraction. Discover our extraction methods in our article on slow coffee.
Why doesn't my Espresso Martini have foam?
Several factors can explain the absence of foam: (1) you didn't shake vigorously enough or long enough (minimum 15 seconds of intense shaking), (2) the espresso was too old or too cold (fresh coffee oils create foam), (3) you used too little ice in the shaker, or (4) the coffee used lacks body. The espresso's crema directly contributes to the cocktail's foam, so an espresso without crema will give a flat result. Always use freshly roasted coffee for optimal results.
What type of coffee should I choose for an Espresso Martini?
Favor a coffee with a balanced profile, chocolaty or caramelized notes, and a round body. Avoid very acidic coffees or those with too floral notes that may seem discordant in a cocktail. Our espresso blends are specifically developed for this type of use. A 100% arabica coffee roasted medium-dark generally works well. To understand how to choose, consult our guide on how to read a coffee bag label.
Does the Espresso Martini contain a lot of caffeine?
Yes, an Espresso Martini contains as much caffeine as a normal espresso, about 60-80 mg per cocktail (depending on the espresso size used). This is equivalent to half a cup of filter coffee. The energizing effect is amplified by alcohol which slightly accelerates caffeine absorption. Avoid consuming several Espresso Martinis late in the evening if you're sensitive to caffeine, or prepare a decaffeinated version using our naturally processed decaf coffee.
Why is this cocktail called "Martini" when it contains neither gin nor vermouth?
The name is a marketing legacy from the 1990s, when any cocktail served in a martini glass (V-shaped glass) was given the "-tini" suffix. The Espresso Martini has no connection to the classic martini (gin and vermouth) beyond the glass used. Its creator, Dick Bradsell, initially called it "Vodka Espresso," a much more descriptive but less catchy name. The term "martini" simply evokes sophistication and elegance, perfect for the cocktail's image.
What other coffee cocktail recipes can I try?
If you like the Espresso Martini, explore the Boris Long Iced Coffee, a refreshing tropical cocktail with rum and cold brew, or the Brazilian Coffee, a warm and comforting version perfect for winter. The classic Irish Coffee also remains a safe bet for cool evenings. Each recipe highlights different aspects of specialty coffee and allows for varied experiences depending on the occasion.