Featured on cocktail lists all over the world, the Espresso Martini is a modern classic cocktail, so the history is not as long and complicated as some of the other classics. The original drink along with vodka and espresso, had Kahlua, Tia Maria and sugar syrup, making for an incredibly rich, overpowering coffee drink. I am not sure how many of you have heard of Manhattan Special. It is a cold espresso drink I have enjoyed for over 30 years and has been around since 1895.

Ingredients:

• 2.5 oz. Manhattan Special Espresso Soda
• 2.5 oz. Coffee liqueur (I use Knight Gabriello)
• 2 oz. Vodka (Zyr Vodka)
• 3 Espresso beans

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients and ice into a shaker.
2. Shake for 15 – 20 seconds, for that velvety foam.
3. Strain into a martini or cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with 3 coffee beans, for good luck.

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Fun Tip: Originally called the Vodka Espresso it was created in 1983
by the British bartender, Dick Bradsell, who worked at the Soho Brasserie.
According to the story, a top model asked for a drink that would
wake her up and fuck her up. Vodka was the most popular spirit at the time
and the bartenders’ cocktail area was located right next to the espresso machine,
and so the Espresso Martini was born.

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