27 Types of Martinis You Should Know

While there are countless types of Martinis out there, the top ones to know generally fall into five main categories: classic Gin Martinis, Vodka Martinis, savoury and Dirty Martinis, flavoured Martinis, and dessert Martinis. Each style differs based on spirit, vermouth ratio, and flavour additions. 

Want to impress your mates with variations of this epic cocktail? Discover some of the most popular spins on this classic in our Martini styles guide and learn how to shake them up like a pro for your next get-together. 

What is a Martini?

A true Martini began as a simple pairing of gin and dry vermouth, stirred with ice and served straight up with a restrained garnish. Over time, especially in the US, vodka stepped in as a popular substitute for gin, reshaping how many people understand the drink today. As Martini culture evolved, the name expanded far beyond its original formula.  

Many modern Martinis-type drinks follow the same chilled, stemmed-glass structure but add flavoured spirits, liqueurs, juice, or cream. They’re more Martini-style cocktails rather than true classics. The difference comes down to structure and balance, not just the glass. 

The main types of Martinis explained

To make sense of the Martini universe, this guide groups drinks by style and flavour direction instead of by era or popularity. 

• Classic Martinis stick closely to gin or vodka with vermouth-driven balance. 

• Savoury Martinis build on briny, herbal, or dry elements, often using olives, vermouth-forward ratios, or aromatised wines. 

• Vodka and modern spirit Martinis use a clean base to support new builds and updated flavour profiles. 

• Flavoured and fruity Martinis lean into citrus, berries, or tropical notes, designed for social, easy-going moments. 

• Dessert Martinis move toward rich, creamy, or sweet territory, and are usually served after dinner. 

Here are a few of the most popular versions of each to try at home:  

Classic Martini styles

Classic Martini

Often the starting point for most Martini variations, the Classic Martini keeps things clean and confident. Gin (opens in new window) and vermouth (opens in new window) do the heavy lifting, finished with either a briny olive or a bright lemon twist, depending on where your taste leans. The result is spirit-forward and unapologetically simple.  

The iconic V-shaped glass plays a role, too. Its wide bowl helps keep the drink chilled while showing off that crystal-clear pour. Even as Martini styles have evolved, this glass remains the ultimate symbol for this cocktail category, tying modern riffs back to the original. 

Gin Martini

The Gin Martini is the blueprint: crisp, composed, and built around clarity of flavour. A London Dry gin sets a refined botanical base, paired with a touch of dry vermouth to keep the structure earthy and aromatic.  

A few drops of orange bitters round things out, while a lemon peel or green olive steers the finish towards citrus or savoury. This Martini leans dry and spirit-forward, making it a good pre-dinner choice when you want something sharp, elegant, and classic. 

50/50 Martini Recipe

The 50/50 Martini is all about balance, giving gin and vermouth equal time in the spotlight. Built half and half, with a dash of orange bitters, it leans aromatic and gently zesty rather than hard-hitting. Gin sets the backbone, while vermouth softens the overall profile, keeping things composed and lower on the boozy scale.  

This style sits on the drier, more nuanced side, making it an easy choice before dinner when you want something polished that won’t dominate the rest of the evening. If subtlety and structure are your thing, this Martini speaks your language. 

Read next: How to Make a Perfect Martini (A Step-by-Step Guide) 

Reverse Martini

By flipping the usual gin-to-vermouth ratio, the Reverse Martini shifts the spotlight in a way that feels intentional and a little unexpected. Also known as a wet or upside-down Martini, this build leans heavily on vermouth, which softens the drink and lowers the overall alcohol content without losing structure.  

It’s a great example of how Gin Martini styles can change dramatically with a small tweak. The result is aromatic, lighter on the palate, and ideal before dinner for something composed instead of punchy.  

Vesper Martini

Hosting a James Bond–themed night? It’s the perfect opportunity to dive into that famous shaken vs stirred Martini debate. The Vesper Martini brings instant 007 energy, invented by Bond himself, who named it after his love interest Vesper Lynd in Casino Royale. This version blends gin and vodka with an aromatised wine ― shaken, not stirred. 

The original called for Kina Lillet, a bitter aperitif that’s no longer made, so modern versions usually swap in Lillet Blanc or Cocchi Americano to capture that dry, lightly bitter edge. It’s strong, assertive, and best served early in the evening, when the mood is sharp and the dress code is dialled in. 

Gibson Cocktail

Built on gin and dry vermouth, the Gibson swaps the usual olive or lemon twist for a pickled cocktail onion, adding a sharp, savoury bite that defines the experience. This Martini is unapologetically dry and leans more savoury than smooth, which explains its reputation for being an acquired taste. It’s best ordered before dinner, when a bracing, spirit-forward opener is called for.  

Savoury & Dirty Martinis

Dirty Martini

A Dirty Martini leans into bold, savoury territory, thanks to a splash of olive brine stirred in with vodka and dry vermouth. That salty hit changes the entire personality of the drink, giving it a richer, more mouth-coating edge than its cleaner counterpart.  

If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between a Dry Martini vs Dirty Martini, this is where the line gets drawn. Dirty is savoury and confidently strong, making it a popular pick for pre-dinner drinks or evenings when you want something with attitude. If this style speaks to you, the full Dirty Martini recipe is worth bookmarking. 

Read next: The Dirty Martini Reinvented: Fresh Twists on the Classic Cocktail 

Mexican Martini

The Mexican Martini blurs the line between a Martini and a Margarita, borrowing structure from one and attitude from the other. Tequila takes the lead, joined by lime and a splash of vermouth, while the salt-rimmed glass and olive garnish give a subtle nod to Dirty Martini territory.  

It lands tangy and savoury with a confident kick, making it a smart pick before dinner or at lively gatherings where bold flavours set the tone. For a clean, expressive base, make it with Espolòn Tequila, whether you lean blanco for brightness or reposado for a little extra depth. 

Also see: 13 Mexican Cocktails to Make at Home: Fresh & Tasty 

Cucumber Martini

Clean, garden-fresh, and quietly confident, the Cucumber Martini brings a lighter, greener edge to the Martini lineup. Vodka provides a neutral base, letting cucumber take the lead with a subtle, savoury-leaning profile that feels composed rather than flashy.  

It’s a strong choice for early evening drinks or warm-weather hosting, especially when food is involved. This Martini really comes into its own alongside smoky, meaty dishes, where its crisp character cuts through richer flavours and keeps the balance right. 

Vodka & modern spirit Martinis

Vodka Martini

If gin isn’t your thing, the Vodka Martini is an easy switch that still sticks to the vibe of classic Martinis. Vodka’s cleaner, more neutral profile softens the drink and lets the vermouth speak up, creating a smoother, more streamlined sip. It’s also the base behind many modern menu favourites that still carry the Martini name.  

For a classic build, reach for Cinzano Vermouth Extra Dry (opens in new window), which brings balance and a crisp edge without overpowering the vodka. This style works well before dinner or anytime where a drink that’s sharp, simple, and unfussy is called for. 

French Martini

Despite its name, the French Martini actually hails from New York. Vodka forms the base, softened by pineapple juice and rounded out with raspberry liqueur for a smooth, lightly sweet profile that’s easy to enjoy.  

It’s approachable without feeling basic, which explains its popularity. This Martini works well at parties or casual get-togethers, especially when you want something crowd-pleasing that doesn’t require bartender-level skills to pull off at home. 

Oui, oui! 12 Elegant French Cocktails for a Chic Sip 

Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini has earned its place among today’s popular Martini drinks, especially in the UK, thanks to its bold coffee flavour and smooth finish. Fresh espresso teams up with vodka and coffee liqueur to create a bittersweet profile, finished with that signature layer of foam on top.  

It’s rich without feeling heavy and delivers a clear coffee kick. This Martini shines after dinner or later in the evening, when dessert feels optional, but a vibe is non-negotiable. 

Make it with: Homemade sugar syrup 

Also see: 9 Creative Espresso Martini Variations to Impress at Your Next Party

Pornstar Martini

Born in London in the noughties, the Pornstar Martini is another UK favourite, which brings playful, tropical energy to the Martini lineup. Built on vodka with passionfruit liqueur, passionfruit juice, and a squeeze of lime, it lands firmly in the world of sweet Martini cocktails, with a tangy edge that keeps things balanced.  

A fresh half of passion fruit sits on top, while a shot of Prosecco is served alongside, ready to sip or pour in. This one shines at parties and celebratory moments, when dessert feels optional and the mood calls for something fun, bold, and a little indulgent. 

Bottoms up! 10 Different Types of Cocktail Glasses and Their Uses 

Fruity & flavoured Martinis

Apple Martini

Apple Martinis bring a sharp, fruit-forward edge, built on the punchy combo of sour apple schnapps and lemon juice. Often called an Appletini, this style sits comfortably among Vodka Martini variations, leaning bright, tangy, and lightly sweet rather than spirit-heavy.  

Vodka keeps the base clean while the apple notes do the talking. It’s a strong choice for warm-weather events like garden parties or casual outdoor get-togethers. Playful but still very Martini-adjacent. 

Learn more: 12 Fruity Martini Recipes for Your Cocktail List 

Pomegranate Martini

The Pomegranate Martini takes a familiar route but swaps in a deeper, fruitier twist. Similar in structure to a Cosmopolitan, it replaces cranberry with pomegranate juice, giving the drink a richer colour and a slightly more complex tart-sweet balance.  

Built on vodka, it’s clean, approachable, and easy to love, which explains why it’s among the most popular Martini drinks. It fits naturally into sunny afternoons and laid-back evenings, when the grill’s going and the mood calls for something bright not heavy. 

Also see: Pomegranate Cocktails: 12 Delightful Recipes You’ll Love to Try 

Blue Martini

The Blue Martini makes an entrance before you even take a sip, thanks to its electric ocean-blue colour from blue Curaçao. Beneath the visuals, pineapple and citrus bring a tropical lean that feels playful rather than serious. This is one of those modern Martini recipes that trades tradition for vibe, without losing its Martini identity. It’s sweet and easy-going, making it a solid pick for parties and themed nights.  

You might like: 11 Best Non-Alcoholic Blue Drinks to Try in 2025 (opens in new window) 

Lemon Drop Martini

Perky, glossy, and finished with that signature sugar rim, the Lemon Drop Martini takes its name from a zesty candy that had a serious moment in the 1970s. The nostalgia stops there, though.  

This drink sits confidently among flavoured Martinis, built with citrus vodka, orange liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and sugar syrup for a bright, sweet-tart balance. It leans playful rather than serious and works best when the vibe is social and upbeat. Make it with  SKYY Infusions Citrus Vodka (opens in new window) to keep the citrus notes crisp and front of mind.  

Get inspired, bestie! The Best Grand Marnier Cocktail and Dessert Recipes You Need to Try  (opens in new window) 

Watermelon Martini

The humble watermelon earns its place here by bringing natural sweetness and a clean, juicy edge to a summertime Martini. In a Watermelon Martini, ripe watermelon teams up with fresh lime juice and vodka to create a fruit-forward profile that feels light, bright, and easy to enjoy.  

It leans gently sweet rather than sharp, making it a solid pick for relaxed afternoons or casual get-togethers. Got extra watermelon? Freeze it into cubes and keep them on hand for future drinks or quick smoothie moments. 

Read next: 11 Watermelon Cocktails to Impress at Any Gathering This Summer 

Cranberry Martini

The Cranberry Martini tends to make its strongest appearance around the holidays, thanks to its jewel-toned colour and bright, bittersweet edge. Vodka forms the base, while fresh cranberry juice brings a sharp pop that keeps the drink lively without tipping into dessert territory.  

It sits somewhere between tart and lightly sweet, with a clean, confident finish. A great choice before dinner or at festive gatherings, especially if a Vodka Cranberry is already in your comfort zone and you’re ready to try something with a little more polish. 

Get crafty: How to Make Sugared Cranberries for Cocktails the Quick & Easy Way 

Pear Martini

Tailor-made for fall, the Pear Martini brings a clean, orchard-style profile that feels composed and quietly elegant. Pear-flavoured vodka sets a softly sweet base, lifted by elderflower liqueur and balanced with lemon juice and sugar syrup. It drinks smoothly, with fruit leading rather than overpowering.  

If you prefer something drier and a little more assertive, swapping the lemon juice and syrup for dry vermouth shifts the Martini into stronger territory, letting the pear notes sit against a sharper, more classic structure.  

Clementine Martini

The Clementine Martini leans bright and citrus-forward, with a smooth, sunlit profile that feels instantly celebratory. Vodka provides a warm, neutral base, layered with sweet clementine juice and the subtle depth of orange liqueur, while a touch of lime keeps the balance in check.  

This Martini lands on the sweeter side without going syrupy, letting the citrus stay front and centre. It’s a great fit for daytime gatherings, pre-dinner drinks, or any moment that calls for something upbeat and easy-going with a polished finish. 

Dessert & seasonal Martinis

Chocolate Martini

The Chocolate Martini is in the indulgent corner of the spectrum, proving just how wide the world of different types of Martinis can be. The recipe shakes vodka with chocolate liqueur to create a smooth, cocoa-forward profile, and the drink is finished off with a rim dipped in cocoa powder for extra depth.  

It leans sweet and creamy rather than spirit-forward and is best saved for after dinner, when the table’s been cleared and dessert feels like a drinkable finale rather than another course. 

YUM! 11 Chocolate Liqueur Cocktails for a Decadent Sip & Sweet Treat 

Eggnog Martini

For festive season sipping, the Eggnog Martini leans fully into cosy, spiced comfort. Vanilla vodka forms the base, joined by Amaretto liqueur and warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg for a creamy, dessert-leaning profile.  

While on the sweet side, the spices are doing the balancing act rather than the acidity. This drink is best served after dinner during the holidays, when the lights are low, the table’s cleared, and you want a Martini that feels celebratory without trying too hard. 

Peppermint Martini

When the festive season hits, the Peppermint Martini steps into the spotlight with holiday energy. Creamy and cool with a clear mint-forward profile, it leans sweet and indulgent without tipping into novelty.  

The mint brings lift, while the creamy base keeps everything feeling rounded and celebratory. This is one to save for after dinner, when dessert is already on the table, and you want a Martini that feels playful, seasonal, and perfectly at home among twinkling lights and end-of-year gatherings. 

Affogato Martini

This dessert-leaning Martini goes all in on indulgence, blending espresso with vodka, chocolate liqueur, coffee liqueur, and ice cream for a rich, after-hours profile that’s built to linger. Sweet and creamy with a clear coffee backbone, it’s a perfect nightcap when dinner’s wrapped up and the conversation’s still flowing.  

The format also invites you to experiment. Swap liqueurs, play with ice cream flavours like cherry, or layer in nutty depth by using Frangelico for a warm, rounded finish that changes the mood without changing the structure. 

Candy Corn Martini

Every now and then, the Martini can also get a little silly. The Candy Corn Martini is a seasonal US novelty drink that leans into a playful, neon-orange energy with a sweet, candy-forward profile. Vodka infused with candy corn sets the base, giving the drink its signature sweetness and nostalgic edge.  

It’s pure fun, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at themed parties or holiday gatherings where novelty is part of the point and the mood is light from the first sip. 

Key Lime Martini

The Key Lime Martini leans straight into dessert territory with a rich, tropical-leaning profile that still feels balanced. Vanilla vodka sets the base, layered with key lime juice, cream of coconut, pineapple juice, and a splash of heavy cream for a smooth, citrus-meets-cream finish. 

It lands firmly on the sweet side, with lime keeping things lively rather than heavy. This is one to serve after dinner, especially when you want the drink to be the dessert. One important detail: use cream of coconut, which is syrupy and sweet, not coconut cream from a tin, as that changes the texture and balance completely. 

Things to consider when choosing your Martini

Gin or vodka?

Gin is the traditional UK choice, vodka the modern alternative. 

The UK has a deep-rooted gin culture, with an emphasis on botanicals, balance, and craft-led distilling. A Gin Martini highlights juniper and herbal notes, creating depth and structure. Vodka offers a cleaner, more neutral base, allowing vermouth or added flavours to take the lead. That’s why it’s the backbone of many modern Martini styles. 

Shaken or stirred?

Stirred is the UK standard. Sorry, 007! 

Stirring chills the Martini while keeping it clear and smooth, preserving its intended texture. Shaking is used deliberately when there’s juice, dairy, or egg white, or when a lighter, frothier texture is the point of the recipe.

Straight up or served over ice? 

Straight up is the classic presentation. 

Serving a Martini straight up keeps dilution in check and keeps a focused flavour profile. When served over ice, the drink continues to soften as the ice melts, which can change the balance and intensity over time. 

Twist or olive?

Lemon peel for brightness, olive for savoury depth. 

A strip of lemon peel adds aromatic lift and sharpens the drink’s profile. An olive introduces a briny, savoury note that works especially well in vermouth-forward or dirty styles. Both are correct; the choice depends on where you want the finish to land. 

Now you know! Visit the SKYY (opens in new window) and Bulldog Gin (opens in new window) websites to stock up on Martini essentials and stay in the mix by signing up for our tasty newsletter. In the meantime, you can browse more vodka cocktail recipes here. Cheers, dears!