Espressotini is a cold coffee cocktail made with espresso and vodka, often flavored with vanilla or espresso vodka. It is not a classic martini, but it is served in a martini glass. Variations include adding chocolate liqueur, Kahlua, Irish cream, or fruit-flavored liqueur. It is a popular drink for those who want to combine caffeine and alcohol.
There are coffee lovers and cocktail lovers. While one seeks the smoky caffeine jazz to get them through the day, the other loves the thrill that carries them through the evening. But for those who can’t choose between a good cup of joe and a perfect appetizer, mixologists have created the espressotini, a drink to serve both masters.
The classification of espressotinis as martini is questionable by experts. Because it includes neither gin or vermouth, it’s by no means a classic martini. The drink stems from the growing popularity of the vodka martini, which replaces the subtle taste of vodka with the spicier kick of gin. Some definitions now classify a martini as any drink usually served in a martini glass, and the espresso-vodka drink falls into this category.
The drink’s history is murky, but the drink most likely derives from popular after-coffee drinks, such as Irish coffees. These beverages, usually served hot, have long been a popular end to meal for those who don’t crave dessert. Espressotini, on the other hand, is a cold drink usually served as an aperitif, but pleasant at any time.
The essential ingredients of an espressotini are a shot of espresso and vodka, although some recipes replace the caffeine serving with coffee or dried espresso crystals. The vodka used is often vanilla flavored, but recently espresso flavored vodkas have also appeared on the market.
If you have an espresso machine at home, try making your own double-strength espresso to boost the flavor of the coffee. Espresso shots should be chilled in the refrigerator or freezer before adding them to the shaker, as hot espresso will melt the ice and result in a weaker, watered-down drink. If you don’t have an espresso machine, try brewing double-brewed coffee to concentrate the flavor.
To make a basic espresso, combine equal parts espresso and vodka and swirl with ice into a cocktail shaker. Pour into a martini glass. To garnish the drink, try placing a chocolate-covered coffee bean in the bottom of the glass or on top of a few sprinkles of fresh coffee. After combining these basic ingredients, cocktail recipes branch out into many variations, based on the taste of the consumer.
For a mocha version of this coffee cocktail, try adding a chocolate liqueur to the mix, such as Creme de Cacao or Godiva Chocolate Liqueur. Other variations call for the addition of Kahlua or Irish cream. Fruit-flavored espressotinis are also popular, with recipes calling for raspberry or orange liqueur. To blend an espressotini, toss the liqueur and espresso into a blender with two scoops of coffee or vanilla ice cream. This version is considered by experts to be a rip-off, as it’s not really a martini, but it’s tasty nonetheless.
While it’s doubtful that the espressotini will surpass the popularity of the classic martini, it does have a large number of fans. People suffering from the after-work blues find the drink an excellent way to wake up and enjoy their evening. Certainly, for those who have always craved a refreshing combination of caffeine and alcohol, the espressotini is a welcome innovation.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
