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The Sapphire Martini is a striking take on the classic martini, known for its deep blue hue and clean, crisp flavor. Typically made with gin or vodka, a splash of blue curaçao gives it that signature color and a hint of orange sweetness. It’s smooth, slightly citrusy, and still keeps that classic martini edge. Whether served with a twist of lemon or a simple orange peel, this cocktail is perfect for when you want something that looks bold but still sips easy. Great for evening events or a quiet night with a polished feel.
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Tasting Notes
The Sapphire Martini is a striking cocktail that dazzles with both its deep blue hue and its crisp, complex flavor. A base of dry gin delivers botanical sharpness and a juniper-forward bite, complemented by the herbal dryness of vermouth. Blue curaçao introduces a subtle orange sweetness and vibrant color, rounding out the martini with a touch of citrus. The result is a perfectly balanced cocktail—dry, aromatic, and just slightly sweet. A cherry garnish adds visual contrast and a pop of color, making this a bold, stylish sipper ideal for sophisticated palates and eye-catching presentations.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare the Sapphire Martini, you’ll need a few standard bar tools. A jigger ensures precise measurement for that perfect balance of gin, vermouth, and curaçao. Use a mixing glass and bar spoon to stir the drink thoroughly with ice for a smooth, well-chilled result. A Hawthorne or julep strainer will help you pour cleanly into your glass. Serve in a classic martini glass to showcase the sapphire-blue color and elegant clarity. For the garnish, a cocktail pick can add a polished touch when placing the cherry delicately at the bottom or side of the glass.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Dry gin
- ½ oz blue curaçao
- ½ oz dry vermouth
- Cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the gin, blue curaçao, and dry vermouth to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously until the ingredients are well combined and chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
- Garnish with a skewered cherry.
- Serve and enjoy your elegant Sapphire Martini!
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality dry gin with well-balanced botanicals—floral or citrus-forward gins work especially well with blue curaçao.
- Stir, don’t shake, to keep the drink crystal clear and silky in texture.
- Chill your martini glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before pouring for a perfectly cold presentation.
- For a drier taste, reduce the blue curaçao slightly or use an extra dry vermouth.
- Want an upscale garnish? Try a brandied cherry or an edible flower for added flair.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the cocktail at its most vibrant, both visually and flavor-wise.
When to Serve
The Sapphire Martini is an excellent choice for evening affairs, rooftop parties, formal events, or any moment that calls for a sophisticated yet visually captivating cocktail. Its vibrant blue hue makes it perfect for themed parties (especially ocean, cosmic, or gemstone motifs), while its dry, crisp profile suits pre-dinner sipping. It also shines as a signature drink for weddings, galas, or cocktail bars looking to impress. Whether served as a conversation piece or a refined nightcap, the Sapphire Martini delivers both style and substance in every elegant sip.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- For a standout Sapphire Martini, start with a premium dry gin such as Bombay Sapphire, Tanqueray No. Ten, or Beefeater 24—each offers botanicals that pair beautifully with curaçao.
- Choose a quality blue curaçao like Giffard, DeKuyper, or Bols for authentic orange flavor and vibrant color.
- For dry vermouth, opt for Noilly Prat, Dolin Dry, or Martini & Rossi Extra Dry to keep the flavor crisp and classic.
- Garnish with Luxardo cherries or top-quality maraschino cherries for a rich, sweet finish that complements the drink’s dry complexity.
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz Dry gin
- ½ oz blue curaçao
- ½ oz dry vermouth
- Cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the gin, blue curaçao, and dry vermouth to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously until the ingredients are well combined and chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a martini glass.
- Garnish with a skewered cherry.
- Serve and enjoy your elegant Sapphire Martini!
Notes
- For a smoother martini, stir the ingredients in the shaker instead of shaking them.
- Try garnishing with a lemon twist for a citrusy note in place of the cherry.
