A vodka martini with a few salty green olives is hard to beat when I’m in the mood for a simple, strong cocktail. When I’m after something a little softer, though, I’ll usually reach for a cocktail rather than a martini. So I surprised myself a little with this Cherry Martini. It’s gentler than a straight-up vodka martini, with just enough sweetness to round out the cherry flavour while still feeling balanced and elegant.
The inspiration came from one of my favourite European delis, a little neighbourhood grocer with an eclectic collection of imported food and, more importantly, booze. I’d actually gone in to pick up ingredients for my Focaccia Breakfast Sandwiches, but as usual I couldn’t leave without browsing the spirits shelf. That’s where I spotted a bottle of Croatian cherry wine, and thankfully curiosity got the better of me because it’s the ingredient that makes this cocktail.
The cherry wine delivers a genuine cherry flavour, while a splash of maraschino liqueur adds subtle almond and stone-fruit notes rather than overwhelming the drink. The result is a cocktail that’s softer than the bold, bitter drinks I usually gravitate towards, yet still feels balanced and grown up. I can already think of several friends who would happily choose this over one of my stronger cocktails.
Its vibrant ruby colour also makes it right at home on a festive table. And if fresh cherries are as ridiculously expensive where you are as they are here, don’t worry—you don’t need them. Apart from an optional garnish, all of the cherry flavour comes from the Croatian cherry wine with a little help from the maraschino liqueur. The flavour is subtle, elegant and unmistakably cherry.
Worth Making?
- Yes – if you enjoy a martini but want something a little gentler without losing its sophistication.
- Yes – because Croatian cherry wine gives you real cherry flavour instead of an overly sweet, artificial version.
- Yes – if you’re looking for a festive cocktail that’s as beautiful in the glass as it is to drink.
- Skip it – if your idea of a cherry cocktail is something bold, syrupy and packed with sweetness.
Cherry Martini
Equipment
- 1 cocktail shaker
Ingredients
- 50 ml vodka
- 30 ml Maraska cherry wine
- 10 ml maraschino liqueur
- 10 ml lemon fresh lemon juice
- 1-2 dashes orange bitters
- Pinch sea salt
Instructions
- Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker and fill with ice.
- Shake vigorously until well combined, pour into chilled glass of your choice. Garnish with an orange twist or a fresh cherry – or drink as is.
Make it your own way
- For a drier cocktail, reduce the cherry wine to 20 ml and increase the vodka to 60 ml
- A lighter brighter citrus finish – express an orange twist over the drink before serving or add a dash of orange bitters
- Don’t have Croatian cherry wine? A good-quality cherry wine will work, although the flavour may be a little sweeter and less complex
- Increase the maraschino liqueur to 15 ml for a richer cocktail, but avoid adding more or it will start to overpower the cherry wine
