Salvatore Calabrese, the mastermind behind the Breakfast Martini and an acclaimed mixologist, shares the fascinating backstory of this modern classic. He dives into the cocktail's unique ingredients, highlighting the unexpected role of orange marmalade. Salvatore also reflects on the evolution of the London cocktail scene and the artistry of mixology. Personal anecdotes about morning rituals add a charming touch, while practical insights inspire listeners to perfect their cocktail-making skills with his signature recipe.
Salvatore Calabrese's Breakfast Martini uniquely combines gin, Cointreau, fresh lemon juice, and orange marmalade, showcasing a perfect blend of flavors.
The evolution of cocktail culture highlights a shift towards quality ingredients and classic methodologies, transforming London's bar scene since the 1990s.
Calabrese emphasizes that great bartending goes beyond mixing drinks, focusing on creating memorable experiences through genuine hospitality.
Deep dives
The Breakfast Martini: A Modern Classic
The Breakfast Martini is a cocktail ingeniously created by Salvatore Calabresi in the 1990s, incorporating gin, Cointreau, fresh lemon juice, and a secret ingredient: orange marmalade. This unique blend offers a delightful combination of bitter, tangy, and sweet flavors, making it more than just a brunch novelty. Calabresi's personal inspiration came from his wife’s insistence on having a proper breakfast, with marmalade on toast, which he later transformed into this iconic drink. The simplicity of the ingredients and the quirky name have contributed significantly to its popularity and enduring status as a contemporary classic.
Legacy and Evolution of Cocktail Culture
Calabresi reflects on the evolution of cocktail culture since the 1990s, noting the shift from overly sweet martini variations to a renewed focus on classic methodologies and quality ingredients. During this golden age of cocktails, he contributed to the renaissance by advocating for fresh, seasonal components, dramatically transforming London's bar scene. This period was marked by the rise of bartenders who prioritized craftsmanship while respecting traditional recipes, leading to the creation of enduring drinks recognized globally today. Calabresi underscores the fine line between creating modern classics and ensuring they remain accessible and appealing to a wider audience.
Crafting the Perfect Breakfast Martini
When preparing the Breakfast Martini, attention to detail is paramount, especially regarding the choice of ingredients. Calabresi recommends using a dry gin, like Bombay Sapphire, combined with Cointreau, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a bar spoon of high-quality orange marmalade for optimal flavor. The preparation involves first dissolving the marmalade with the other ingredients before shaking with ice to achieve a perfect balance of coldness and sweetness. By serving it in a chilled glass, this cocktail successfully embodies the essence of a breakfast delight that can be enjoyed any time of day.
The Italian Influence in London's Bar Scene
Calabresi discusses the significant Italian influence in shaping London’s cocktail culture, noting that many talented Italian bartenders migrated to London to bring their unique flavors and hospitality ethos. This cultural exchange fostered a vibrant bar scene where cocktails became a form of artistic expression, transforming bartending into a celebrated profession. Italian bartenders, including Calabresi, integrated their heritage's understanding of flavors with London's evolving cocktail demands, contributing to a richer drinking experience. The result is a mélange of traditional Italian hospitality paired with innovative cocktail craftsmanship that continues to inspire new generations.
Artistry in Bartending and the Role of Hospitality
Throughout the discussion, Calabresi emphasizes the importance of hospitality as the true essence of great bartending, highlighting that it's not just about mixing drinks but about creating memorable experiences. He recounts anecdotes illustrating how the best bartenders understand their patrons' needs, delivering not just beverages but also warmth and comfort. This human connection enhances the customer's experience, making the bartending profession much more than a simple service role. Calabresi's approach illustrates that every drink represents a journey, inviting guests to savor each sip, while also making them feel at home in the bar.
It's one of the first "modern classics" in the canon, and we're joined by its creator, Salvatore Calabrese. The Maestro himself checks in to Cocktail College to chat about one of his most famous creations — how it came to be, why it's become so famous, and how to perfect it, plus so much more. Listen on or read below to learn Salvatore's Breakfast Martini recipe — and don’t forget to leave a rating, review, and subscribe!
Salvatore Calabrese’s Breakfast Martini Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ ounces London Dry gin
- ½ ounce Cointreau
- ½ ounce lemon juice
- 1 heaped barspoon Wilkin & Sons Orange Marmalade
- Garnish: orange twist
Directions
1. Add all ingredients to a shaker tin with ice.
2. Stir to dissolve marmalade, discard excess water, and add fresh ice.
3. Shake until chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a shredded orange or orange twist.