This recipe is NOT a knock on Dick Bradsell or what he created in the 1980s. The Espresso Martini is a good cocktail. The story of how and why it was made is also very fantastic.
BUT…….
Vodka is a boring choice of spirit in this cocktail. Its only purpose is to make it a boozy drink.
Using rum, tequila, mezcal, whiskey, or even cognac will make this cocktail delicious.
Why Do I Use Cognac in My Espresso Martini Recipe?
I want to thank Anders Erickson for this. We were hanging out one night, and he told me he started using Cognac for the past several years because it pairs very well with coffee, giving it a more robust and flavorful drinking experience.
He even told me he likes adding a lemon peel to the shaking process to brighten up the martini. I do like doing that, but here in Iowa, when I have made that way for people, they weren’t huge fans.
How to Make My Favorite Espresso Martini Recipe
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Hey now, put some respect on one of our favorite mixologists name… it’s Anders.
Thanks for the heads up. I guess I had too many cocktails when writing this post.
The heading states “no vodka”. The recipe includes Mr. Black. Are you aware that Mr. Black is made with vodka?
We LOVE Mr Black and are aware. I get where you are coming from BUT I don’t believe it’s me adding vodka to the drink. Here is my thought about that. Gin is infused vodka and that’s how I look at Mr Black.
How much did Mr Black pay you for this
Mr black is nothing but coffee vodka and sugar in a bottle.
All you’re doing to paying them for simple syrup and coffee
Isn’t that how all liquor is made? Spirit + flavor + sugar?