What Actually Makes A Martini Extra Dirty?

Dirty martinis are a popular choice among martini lovers. But what is the secret to making a regular dirty martini extra dirty? The special ingredient that makes this cocktail so different from a traditional martini also makes it savory and salty and imparts loads of flavor.

Traditional dry martinis are made with either gin or vodka, vermouth, and are garnished with a twirl of lemon peel. Dirty martinis include a mere half-ounce of olive brine – yes, a dirty martini contains the juice from a jar of green olives. To make a martini extra dirty, or filthy as it's sometimes called, simply add even more olive brine — two ounces of the juice, to be exact. A garnish of olives is essential. 

Either vodka or gin can be used for an extra dirty martini, but many experts prefer a highly-ranked vodka. Vodka is typically a neutral-tasting spirit that allows the other flavors of the drink to take center stage. If you're on a budget, the taste of cheap vodka can often be disguised in an extra dirty martini due to the relatively strong flavor of the olive brine.

Dirty martinis have existed since the early 20th century, and in some accounts it's even alleged that President Franklin D. Roosevelt created the first one. However, the name itself has only been used since the 1980s. Dirty martinis get their name from the way the olive brine "dirties" the clear liquor. 

Some mixologists are taking it a step further by making ice cubes from the brine. Instead of diluting the drink, "olive cubes" infuse it with more flavor as the ice melts. For even more olive flavor, you can cut an olive in half and freeze it in the olive cube. 

If you're worried that your green olives will go bad without being stored in the brine, you should know that you can purchase bottles of olive juice online. There are many uses for the brine beyond dirty martinis so it won't go to waste. You can use it in marinades, salad dressings, or add it to the yolks of deviled eggs for an additional kick of unique flavor.