Updated on: 6/3/2025
What Is an Extra Dry Martini?
“Dryness” in Martini culture refers to a lower proportion of vermouth in the mix compared to gin or vodka. An extra dry martini is defined by using extremely little dry vermouth—sometimes just a rinse or even none at all.
What Does ‘Dry’ Mean in a Martini?
The term "dry" in cocktails initially described the style of vermouth (dry meaning less sweet), but over time it’s become shorthand for the minimal presence of vermouth. Here’s how dryness breaks down:
- Classic dry martini: roughly 60 ml gin to 15 ml dry vermouth
- Extra dry martini: 60 ml gin (or vodka) with 5 ml or less vermouth
- Some order ‘bone dry’ or ‘dust dry’, requesting only a vermouth rinse, swirl, or even just a spritz
As the vermouth drops, the cocktail takes on more of the base spirit’s profile with less herbal complexity from the fortified wine.
How Extra Dryness Changes Flavor
With so little vermouth, an extra dry martini is about clarity: cool, clean alcohol; subtle aromatics; and a crisp finish. If made with gin, the botanicals shine without much herbal cushion. Vodka creates an even more streamlined flavor, ideal for those seeking minimal interference.
- More vermouth adds herbal, floral, or slightly bitter notes.
- Less vermouth makes the alcohol strength and base spirit character more prominent.
- Garnishes (olive or lemon twist) become more noticeable in the overall flavor.
How Preferences Have Evolved
The classic martini—once as much as 1:1 gin to dry vermouth—has steadily shifted drier over the decades. By the mid–20th century, taste swung toward almost no vermouth at all, reflecting a culture of spirit-forward cocktails and confidence in high-quality gin or vodka. Today, modern drinkers often explore more balanced ratios, but the extra dry martini remains an iconic statement of a minimalist approach.
Classic Extra Dry Martini Recipe
- 60 ml gin (or vodka for a vodka martini)
- 5 ml dry vermouth
- Ice cubes
- Lemon twist or green olive for garnish
How to Make an Extra Dry Martini
- Chill a martini glass in the freezer or fill with ice water.
- Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
- Add 60 ml gin (or vodka) and 5 ml dry vermouth.
- Stir briskly for 15–20 seconds to chill without over-diluting.
- Strain into the chilled glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or olive according to your taste.
When to Choose an Extra Dry Martini
Opt for extra dry when you want your base spirit to take center stage, or you appreciate qualities like purity, subtle finishes, or the unique character of a well-selected gin or vodka. The cocktail’s history and the appeal of dryness reflect a certain timeless elegance and restraint—one of the reasons the extra dry martini remains a touchstone in bars everywhere.