As bartenders, vodka is one of those core products that you need to have on your back bar for a multitude of cocktails! When we originally developed Barry Island Vodka we intended its primary use to be in our bar in cocktails.
Triple distilled in full copper from organic grain and lengthened with soft Welsh water, Barry Island Vodka is exceptionally smooth. It's great for sipping over ice with a dash of tonic water and a slice of lemon and it makes a sensational cocktail base.
The Espresso Martini
Espresso Martini's certainly seem to be having a moment. The exact origin of the espresso martini is unknown, but it is believed to have been invented in London in the early 1980s. One story says that it was created by Dick Bradsell, a bartender at the Fred's Club in Soho. Bradsell was known for his creative cocktails, and he is credited with inventing several other popular drinks, including the Bramble and the Cosmopolitan.
Another story says that the espresso martini was created by a bartender named Joe Gilmore at the Cafe Royal in London. Gilmore was also a famous bartender, and he is credited with inventing the White Lady and the Singapore Sling.
Regardless of who invented it, the espresso martini quickly became a popular drink in London and throughout the world. It is now a staple on cocktail menus in bars and restaurants everywhere.
A classic espresso martini cocktail is made with a few simple ingredients, but it is important to use high-quality ingredients to get the best results. The vodka should be smooth and flavourful which is where Barry Island Vodka really shines, the espresso should be freshly brewed, and the coffee liqueur should be made with high-quality coffee beans.
Our Salted Caramel Espresso Martini Cocktail Recipe
This delicious and easy-to-make cocktail is perfect for any occasion. Made with Barry Island Vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and salted caramel syrup, it's sure to become your new favourite drink.
Here's what you need to make our Salted Caramel Espresso Martini cocktail recipe...
Ingredients:
1 single shot of freshly made espresso
10ml coffee liqueur (we like Conker Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur)
10ml salted caramel syrup
Ice
Coffee beans, for garnish (optional)
How To Make a Salted Caramel Espresso Martini
Chill your glass by filling it with ice and make your shot of espresso. Doing both these things first allows your glass to get nice and chilled and for your espresso shot to cool down.
Add ice to your cocktail shaker then pour in 25ml of Barry Island Organic Welsh Vodka, 10ml of good quality coffee liqueur and 10 ml of salted caramel syrup (see our tip at the end of this post for details of how to make your own salted caramel syrup). Finally add your shot of espresso.
Shake vigorously until well-chilled. Remove the ice form your glass and strain the liquid form your shaker in to your glass. You can use a classic martini glass or we love a Nick & Nora glass. Finally garnish with coffee beans, if desired.
Tips:
For a stronger cocktail, use a double measure (50ml) of vodka.
For a sweeter cocktail, add more salted caramel syrup.
How to Make Your Own Salted Caramel Syrup
To make your own salted caramel syrup, combine 100g sugar, 200ml water, and a teaspoon of vanilla essence to a pan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sugar has dissolved and the syrup has thickened and has a caramel colour. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon salt. Let cool completely before using.
Enjoy!