Espresso Martini

Espresso Martini
By Anthony Tripodi

With the popularity of espresso shops and martini bars is it
any wonder that the espresso martini has become popular as well?
Sometimes called the espressotini, this drink is a perfect blend
of caffeine and alcohol. If you’re looking for a buzz that picks
you up while relaxing you at the same time, then it's time that
you asked your barista or your bartender for an espresso
martini.

So what is an espresso martini? Well, that depends on who you
ask. There are so many variations of this drink out there that
there isn't a generally accepted recipe. The only consistent
ingredients are espresso and vodka and even then the espresso is
sometimes substituted with coffee or even instant coffee
crystals.

The best espresso martinis are usually made with real espresso.
If you're making one at home, be sure to let it cool to room
temperature before adding it to your cocktail shaker. Using ice
to cool down your espresso will just give you watered down
espresso.

The vodka in an espresso martini is almost always of the
flavored variety. The most popular option is using a vanilla
vodka and adding a coffee liqueur. But now there are espresso
flavored vodkas available as well. Whether you use unflavored
vodka, vanilla or espresso just remember that you don't want to
use gin. It's true that martinis are made with gin but it really
doesn't taste great when mixed with espresso.

Once the vodka and the espresso are added this is where all the
variations come into play. Some people like to add a splash of
Grand Marnier, while other recipes call for Tia Maria or
Amaretto. Even chocolate liqueurs can be added if you prefer the
taste of a mochaccino to a regular espresso. If you like the
taste of one of these liqueurs and you think it will go with
your espresso martini then give it a try. Whatever you choose,
be sure to only use a splash because the main purpose of this
additional liqueur is to add a just hint of flavor. You don't
want to overpower the primary flavors of the martini.

The one thing that almost all espresso martini recipes agree on
is the garnish. Three espresso beans will top your drink off
properly. The rules for garnishes say that odd amounts are lucky
so go with one, three or five beans.

Espresso martinis are becoming more and more popular no matter
how they are made. Whether you're a regular at your local coffee
house or that swanky martini bar in the city, why not order an
espressotini the next time you're looking for new and unusual
drink.

About the Author: Anthony Tripodi is the webmaster of
http://EndlessCoffeeBreak.com For more drink ideas like the
Espresso Martini, please visit http://www.endlesscoffeebreak.com

Source: http://www.isnare.com

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