Hardly any other drink combines energy, elegance, and refinement as stylishly as the Espresso Martini. It's alert, strong, creamy, and a real eye-catcher in the glass. Originally prepared with vodka, the drink now presents itself in exciting new interpretations – for example, with gin. And that's exactly where our THORALM Dry Gin comes into play: As a juniper-fresh alternative to vodka, it provides depth, character and a modern signature.
The History of the Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini was created in the 1980s by the London bartender Dick Bradsell invented – allegedly at the request of a guest who wanted something that would simultaneously "wakes up and shoots“. The combination of freshly brewed espresso, Coffee liqueur and spirit was born.
The drink was originally called “Vodka Espresso,” but later became the “Espresso Martini” – not because of the glass (not a typical martini glass), but because of the shape of the cocktail: short, strong, and served clear.
The modern version with THORALM Dry Gin
Vodka is tasteless – gin, on the other hand, brings character to the glass. Our THORALM Dry Gin with its fine citrus and juniper notes gives the Espresso Martini a harsh, complex depthwhich harmonizes perfectly with the bitter roasted aroma of the espresso and the sweetness of the coffee liqueur.
The combination may seem unusual at first glance – but it works surprisingly well. More nuance, more depth, more THORALM.
Espresso Martini – recipe with THORALM Dry Gin
Ingredients for 1 glass:
4 cl THORALM Dry Gin
3 cl freshly brewed espresso (preferably chilled)
2 cl coffee liqueur (e.g. Kahlúa)
1 cl sugar syrup (optional – depending on desired sweetness)
ice cubes
3 coffee beans for decoration
Preparation (approx. 5 minutes):
Pour all ingredients into a shaker with ice.
Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds – important for the crema!
Strain into a chilled cocktail or martini glass.
Garnish with three coffee beans.
Tip: Use a freshly brewed espresso (not cold coffee!) and let it cool for 1-2 minutes so that the ice doesn't dilute too much when shaking.
Taste & aroma
The Espresso Martini plays with contrasts: bitterness meets sweetness, roasted aromas meet freshness, strength meets elegance. The first impression is creamy and full-bodied, followed by a lingering aftertaste of coffee, fine herbs, and a hint of citrus – especially when using our THORALM Dry Gin.
The texture is velvety, almost dessert-like, but without any heaviness. A drink for connoisseurs, night owls, and lovers of clean lines.
Espresso or cold brew – which is better?
A classic espresso brings intense roasted aromas and the necessary crema for a velvety texture in the glass. Those who prefer a milder and fruitier taste can also use cold brew instead – this results in a softer, less bitter drink with exciting nuances. In any case, it's important that the coffee be fresh, strong and not watered down be.
Nutritional values & calories
Calories per glass: approx. 200–220 kcal
alcohol content: approx. 16 Vol.-% (depending on liqueur & mixture)
Sugar content: variable through syrup and coffee liqueur – can be adjusted
3 typical mistakes when making an Espresso Martini
Espresso too hot: If the ice melts too quickly, the drink becomes watered down.
Not enough shaking: Without vigorous shaking, a stable crema will not be produced.
Wrong ratio: The drink should never be too sweet or too alcoholic – balance is everything.
When is an Espresso Martini appropriate?
As After-dinner drink or dessert substitute
For stylish Start into the evening
As a signature drink at parties
In the Gin variant ideal for those who love cocktails with personality
Variations & modern twists
Gin Tonic Espresso Martini: served with a dash of tonic on ice
Salted Caramel Espresso Martini: with caramel syrup and sea salt rim
Vanilla Espresso Martini: with vanilla syrup or vanilla liqueur
Cold Brew Martini: use a strong cold brew instead of espresso
Vodka or Gin? – A Question of Character
Traditionally, the Espresso Martini with vodka prepared – tasteless and clean. We deliberately use THORALM Dry Gin to give the drink more depth and character The juniper base harmonizes amazingly well with the bitter notes of the coffee, lending this classic a whole new signature. A recommendation for anyone who loves cocktails with character.
Our conclusion
The Espresso Martini isn't just a cocktail—it's a statement. Strong, clear, elegant. And in this version with our THORALM Dry Gin This classic gets an exciting upgrade with depth and character. Whether as a stylish conclusion to a dinner or a lively start to the night, this drink makes an impression.
Try it out – we’re sure you’ll love it.
Photo: / stock.adobe.com
