Caprese Martini

Inspired by the classic Italian salad, the Caprese Martini brings together fresh tomatoes, basil, and even a touch of mozzarella brine for a truly savory experience. Vodka gives it structure, while sweet vermouth rounds things out. It’s unexpected yet simple, built on garden flavors that play well in a chilled glass. A few finishing drops of olive oil and lemon peel add just enough lift. This is a cocktail for those who enjoy drinks with personality and depth, especially when they lean more savory than sweet.

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Tasting Notes

The Caprese Martini blends garden-fresh flavor with a briny twist. Cherry tomatoes offer a mild sweetness and soft acidity, while fresh basil adds herbal brightness. Lemon juice sharpens the profile, and the mozzarella brine brings a subtle saltiness that echoes the drink’s culinary roots. Vodka keeps the base clean, while sweet vermouth adds a light hint of complexity. A few drops of olive oil on top contribute richness and aroma, rounding out the experience. Each sip is savory, citrus-kissed, and layered perfect for those who appreciate cocktails with character and a nod to classic flavor pairings.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing, plus a muddler to break down the tomatoes and basil. A jigger helps measure the lemon juice, vodka, vermouth, and brine precisely. A fine mesh strainer is essential for removing solids so the final pour stays smooth. Use a chilled martini glass for presentation, which enhances both aroma and visual appeal. For garnishing, keep a cocktail skewer or toothpick handy for assembling mozzarella balls, tomato, and basil. A small dropper or bar spoon can help you apply the olive oil in controlled amounts.

Ingredients

• 3 halved cherry tomatoes
• 3 fresh basil leaves
• 0.25 oz lemon juice
• 2 oz vodka
• 0.25 oz sweet vermouth
• 0.25 oz mozzarella cheese brine
• Garnish: cherry tomato, mozzarella balls, basil leaves, olive oil drops, lemon peel

Instructions

• In a cocktail shaker, combine halved cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, and lemon juice.
• Muddle firmly to release juices and aromatics.
• Add vodka, sweet vermouth, and mozzarella brine.
• Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15 seconds.
• Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a chilled martini glass.
• Garnish with a cherry tomato, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.
• Finish with a few drops of olive oil and a twist of lemon peel on top.

Pro Tips

• Use ripe cherry tomatoes for a juicier, more flavorful base.
• Don’t over-muddle; light pressure helps avoid bitterness from basil.
• Mozzarella brine should be lightly salted avoid versions with added preservatives.
• A double strain ensures a clean, smooth texture.
• Chill your martini glass ahead of time to maintain temperature.
• Olive oil should be fresh and mild not too peppery or bitter.
• If using store-bought mozzarella balls, reserve the brine for mixing.
• Add the oil last to keep it from dispersing too quickly.

When to Serve

The Caprese Martini is a great fit for dinner parties, aperitivo hours, or as a talking point at tasting events. Its savory edge makes it ideal before meals, especially when paired with Mediterranean appetizers or cheese boards. It’s best suited for spring or summer, when tomatoes and basil are at their peak, but it can be enjoyed year-round by anyone who enjoys fresh, non-sweet cocktails. It also shines at culinary-themed gatherings or cocktail competitions where originality and flavor integration matter.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Vodka: Ketel One, Chopin, or Stolichnaya
• Sweet Vermouth: Carpano Antica, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, or Dolin Rouge
• Mozzarella Brine: Use liquid from fresh mozzarella (preferably packed in water, not oil)
• Olive Oil: California Olive Ranch, Partanna, or any mild, high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• Tomatoes/Basil: Use organic or locally sourced produce for better freshness and aroma

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