Are you aligned with the Vodkatini faction?

In the world of cocktails, the Martini has long been a staple, and recently, a new twist on this classic drink has been captivating bar-goers - the vodka Martini.

The preference for clean, stirred vodka Martinis can be traced back to the 1930s, when the drink first gained popularity in New York after Prohibition's repeal. However, it was not until the 1940s that the vodka Martini was rechristened the Kangaroo, in recognition of Australian efforts during the Second World War. This name was a bid by an American bartender to honour the Australian troops.

Today, vodka Martinis are making a comeback, thanks in part to the recent craze for the vodka-based Dirty Martini. At Dover, a Martini hotspot in Mayfair, vodka Martinis outsell gin Martinis by two to one. The Dover's house vodka Martini recipe uses the Polish brand Konik's Tail, known for its creamy yet crisp texture with a hint of pepper.

Meanwhile, at Maison Premiere, a bar in Brooklyn, the vodka Martini has made a long-awaited debut on its menu after 14 years. The Kangaroo Martini, made with Truman Vodka, is a standout on the menu. Truman Vodka, distilled by Hans Reisetbauer from organic wheat grown on his farm, is praised for its crystalline, textured quality.

The changing trend towards vodka Martinis over gin Martinis is not limited to New York and London. Martin Kuczmarski, patron of The Dover, believes vodka is more suited to a Martini due to its softer, more natural flavor and less overpowering aroma compared to gin. Alessandro Palazzi, manager of Dukes bar, one of the most famous martini destinations in the world, prefers Polish rye vodkas such as Potocki for Martinis due to their nutty flavor.

In conclusion, the vodka Martini is making a comeback, with bars around the world embracing this classic drink with a modern twist. Whether you prefer the clean, stirred vodka Martini or the Dirty version, there's no denying that this drink is here to stay.