The Martini - An Introduction

A Martini is a dangerous drink, my dear,

I have two at the very most,

three and I'm under the table,

four and I'm under the host.

-- Dorothy Parker

This has always been one of my favourite Dorothy Parker quotes. I love Ms. Parker as much as I love a Martini. Ogden Nash wrote the following poem about the Martini and I heartily commend it to you.

A Drink With Something In It

There is something about a Martini,

A tingle remarkably pleasant;

A yellow, mellow Martini;

I wish I had one at present.

There is something about a Martini,

Ere the dining and dancing begin,

And to tell you the truth,

It is not the vermouth--

I think that perhaps it's the gin.

Starting this week, I'll begin a series of discussions on the Martini - including my views and recipes for this libation - and visit local bars in search of the best Martini in town. The first of the series of articles will be published this week. And we'll be visiting a local establishment to test the abilities of their bartender.

Skål!