Ultimate Brotini #5 – The Black Martini

For eight days, we’re hitting you with the bravest, most dude-worthy cocktails we can dig up. Some of these you can make yourself, and at least one is only found at a posh bar at a Manhattan cheese shop, and only by request. You’re bound to be inspired to down some brave spirits, and you’ll certainly rethink the idea of a martini.

This martini tilts the throttle away from Jagger Bombs and all the way toward full gentleman… We’re not only going back to a traditional martini, since gin is what makes a martini a martini, but we’re going “black tie” with a martini that is literally black. The black martini can be made all sorts of ways, but the 2-ingredient version below is simple and elegant. Plus, there’s a version you or a lady might like to try if you’re not into Sambuca.

If you’ve never had Sambuca before, you should know it as an Italian anise or licorice-flavored liqueur.  A lot of people add it to coffee, or drink the clear liqueur straight with a few coffee beans floating in it. At 42% it ain’t a girly drink. Put Black Sambuca in your martini, and it grows biceps.

The Black Martini

2/3 oz Gin
1/3 oz Black Sambuca

Pour ingredients over ice. Shake gently.
Strain into cocktail glass.

The Black Martini (for your date):

3 1/2 oz gin or vodka
1/2 oz blackberry brandy or black raspberry liqueur

Add a lemon twist or black olive for garnish or gold flakes