The Buildout The McKirdy Martini
Nov 6, 2025
In this final session, Adam Teeter, co-founder and CEO of VinePair, chats with Tim McKirdy, who shares his signature McKirdy Martini recipe. Tim reflects on his transformation from chef to cocktail enthusiast and recalls the moment a Roku Martini ignited his passion. He discusses the emotional allure of the Martini and his preference for a bold, high-proof version. Listeners will also learn about the precise ingredients, preparation methods, and Tim's thoughts on cocktail culture, making it a bittersweet toast to their mixology journey.
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First Martini Moment
- Tim describes discovering his first martini through his then-girlfriend and Roku gin, which triggered an immediate love for the drink.
- He compares the martini's emotional lift to champagne and caviar, calling it a life-changing moment.
Martini's Unique Synergy
- Tim argues the martini is greater than the sum of its parts because it both showcases and transcends gin and vermouth.
- He finds it magical that many proportions—from 13:1 to 50:50—can still cohere into a martini.
Boost ABV For Sweeter Specs
- If you prefer a higher vermouth ratio like 50:50, raise the ABV with a navy-strength gin so the drink still packs punch.
- Split vermouth types (blanco and dry) when you want more vermouth complexity while keeping potency.