This matcha martini recipe was created in collaboration with our Matcha.com co-founder, Dr. Andrew Weil — who let's just say is very specific about how he likes his martinis!
When it comes to making a martini, Dr. Weil often adds an unexpected twist to the classic cocktail recipe. What is the secret ingredient to one of Dr. Weil's favorite cocktails? Matcha green tea powder! A matcha martini has a wonderful level of flavor, a touch of healthful compounds, and an undeniably smile-inducing brilliant green hue.
So how exactly does Dr. Weil enjoy his matcha martini? Making an excellent matcha martini to Dr. Weil's liking comes down to a very specific ratio of vermouth to gin as well as a careful selection of high-quality ingredients.
Ingredients you will need for your matcha martini:
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1 ½ oz high-quality gin
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¾ oz dry vermouth
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½ tsp sifted ceremonial grade matcha
5 Step Directions to making Dr. Weil's matcha martini:
- Fill up your cocktail shaker with ice cubes. (A handful of ice is also fine)
- Place all your other ingredients into your cocktail shaker.
- Pick up your cocktail shaker and turn it sideways, a full 90 degrees. Shake vigorously for about 15 to 20 seconds.
- Strain into a martini glass.
- If desired, add a twist of lemon or lime peel as garnish. Enjoy!
Tips to keep in mind when you are trying to make a matcha martini just like Dr. Weil enjoys
A good matcha martini (or any martini for that matter) always starts with choosing quality ingredients. Since this is a very alcohol-forward drink, you want to buy high-quality brands of gin and vermouth that will give you a smooth flavor and taste.
The same rule of quality applies to the matcha powder you use. Low-quality matcha tends to be bitter, and we absolutely do not want that. Instead, opt for ceremonial grade matcha. This is not the drink to be frugal with- every drop counts when it comes to flavor.
When you go to combine your martini ingredients in a shaker with ice, using a metal cocktail shaker really ensures that your drink will be cold. This is key and what makes this such a refreshing drink! Though if you don't have a cocktail shaker, you can alternatively use a mason jar with a lid or a shaker bottle.
There is also a lot of variation regarding the role that your vermouth ratio plays in a martini. A dry martini has little to no vermouth. Some recipes even go so far as to suggest simply waving a vermouth bottle over your glass. For Dr. Weil's martini recipe, we are calling for a 2/1 ratio of gin to vermouth. But Dr. Weil even likes his martinis at a 1/1 ratio.
We think this recipe absolutely nails it in terms of the perfect ratio of gin (or vodka) to vermouth and is sure to become your new favorite martini.
Remember Dr. Weil prefers a martini shaken, not stirred.
We all remember that classic line from James Bond, right?! James Bond and Dr. Weil both op for a shaken matcha martini — this is because shaking vigorously helps aerate your martini and gives you a smooth and refreshing feel when sipped.
But, again, if you'd prefer a stirred martini, you do you!
The bottom line - try giving a classic martini a new twist by adding matcha as Dr. Weil sometimes does
Martinis are one of THE most classic cocktails on earth. Adding matcha to a martini really brings the unexpected to the classic martini cocktail recipe.
This straightforward recipe can be easily adjusted to make for multiple guests.
We always advocate for making recipes your own- so if you prefer vodka to gin, that is 100% ok. Vodka tends to have a smoother and more neutral taste, whereas gin is packed with herbal flavors. The most important thing is that you enjoy what you're drinking! If you want your martini the way the Dr. drinks it -- then keep it gin.
Interested in other matcha cocktails? You can see all our cocktail and mocktail matcha recipes here.
Disclaimer: These statements in this blog post have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.
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