FRENCH MARTINI COCKTAIL RECIPE

Created on July 23, 2023

The French Martini is an iconic, sophisticated cocktail that adds a Parisian twist with the inclusion of Chambord. Its vibrant blend of vodka, pineapple juice, and Chambord (a raspberry liqueur) makes it a delightful choice for a dinner party or just a night in.

foamy french martini with cherry and pineapple slice garnishes, in a cocktail bar

Ingredients

  • 2 Ounces Vodka
  • 1 Ounce Chambord
  • 2 Ounces Pineapple Juice
  • 1 Pineapple Slice (optional garnish)

Method

  1. Fill a shaker with ice.
  2. Add the Vodka, Pineapple Juice, and Chambord.
  3. Shake for about 15 seconds, or until chilled.
  4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
  5. (Optional) Garnish with you Pineapple Slice.
  6. Enjoy!

Tips For Making A French Martini

  • Use fresh pineapple juice for a fresher cocktail.

  • Make sure you shake hard to get that foam layer on top, which comes from the pineapple juice being airated.

  • Chilling the glass beforehand helps your drink stay cool for longer, since the French Martini is served without ice.

  • For a different twist, try substituting the vodka with gin or the Chambord with crème de cassis.

What Does A French Martini Taste Like?

A French Martini is a delightful mix of fruity and tart flavors. The pineapple juice provides a tropical sweetness, while the Chambord imparts a rich, berry undertone. The vodka adds a clean, crisp edge that balances the cocktail perfectly.

French Martini Ingredients

The French Martini is a delightful blend of just 3 ingredients:

  • Vodka: Provides a clean base.

  • Chambord: A French black raspberry liquor which provides a fruity, berry-like flavor.

  • Pineapple Juice: Adds a tropical sweetness.

Best Vodka For A French Martini

For the French Martini, a high-quality vodka with a smooth profile works best. A brand like Grey Goose is an excellent choice due to its superior quality and clean, crisp finish that doesn't overpower the other flavors.

History Of The French Martini

The French Martini first emerged in the 1980s during the New York City cocktail renaissance. It was created by Keith McNally, a famous restaurateur, for his Balthazar bar in Soho.

The French Martini's only relation to the classic Martini is the glass it is served in. It was designed to appeal to a broader audience with its fruitier flavors.

Its creation was closely tied to the marketing of Chambord, contributing to the raspberry liqueur's popularity today. It is a well-loved cocktail across the globe, symbolizing elegance and sophistication.

It's called a French Martini because of the Chambord, a French liqueur, and because it's served in a martini glass.