Marguerite
A pivotal moment in cocktail history, representing the crucial evolutionary link between the sweeter gin cocktails of the 19th century and the iconically dry Martini of the 20th.
34%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
coupe
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Marguerite first appeared in the late 19th century and represents a crucial step in the evolution of the Martini. Its early adoption of dry gin (specifically Plymouth) and French dry vermouth, moving away from sweeter Old Tom gins and Italian vermouths, set the stage for the 20th century's iconic dry Martini. The 2:1 ratio, solidified in the early 1900s, became a defining feature.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
Combine the Plymouth Gin, Dolin Dry Vermouth, and orange bitters in a mixing glass with ice.
Stir briskly and consistently for 20-25 seconds until well-chilled.
Strain into the chilled glass.
Garnish with an expressed lemon twist.
Glassware
Served in a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass
Garnish
Expressed over the drink
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
The 2:1 ratio of gin to vermouth is the sweet spot, allowing the gin to be the backbone while still showcasing the complex herbal notes of the dry vermouth.
Stirring, not shaking, is essential to maintain the silky mouthfeel and clarity of this spirit-forward cocktail.
Use a fresh, high-quality vermouth and keep it refrigerated after opening to prevent oxidation.
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Marguerite.
Dry Martini
The most famous descendant, characterized by a much higher ratio of gin to vermouth and typically garnished with an olive.
Changes
Martinez
The likely predecessor, traditionally made with Old Tom Gin, sweet vermouth, and maraschino liqueur.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Turf Club
A sophisticated gin cocktail that bridges the gap between the sweeter Martinez and the drier Martini, featuring complex aromatics from maraschino liqueur and absinthe.
Tuxedo No. 2
A sophisticated Martini variation featuring subtle complexity from maraschino liqueur and an absinthe rinse, representing the elegant cocktail culture of the Gilded Age.
50/50 Martini
Equal parts gin and dry vermouth with a dash of orange bitters—silky, aromatic, and lower proof.