a dirty martini with olives

What Exactly Is The 'Dirty' Part Of A Martini

NEWS

By HILARY WHEELAN REMLEY

A dirty martini is typically made with gin or vodka, vermouth, and olives as a garnish. The brine, which is the salty liquid in the olive jar, is what makes the martini dirty.
It gives your martini a foggy haze and alters the cocktail's usually clean, crisp flavors. It helps cut through the alcohol and is ideal for those who like their drinks more savory.
A classic martini has a splash of olive brine—just enough to give it a salty twist. A dirty martini has a 1:2 ratio of brine to vodka or gin, giving a more potent olive flavor.