The Marguerite and the Martini have far too much in common to *not* be related to each other.

While the Martini’s origins are shrouded in mystery, the Marguerite was most definitely created at the Knickerbocker Hotel in New York City.  And yes, the bartender at the Knickerbocker in 1911 was named Martini (Martini di Arma di Taggia).

HOWEVER, Mixmaster General & Father of the Modern Cocktail Jerry Thomas, created a cocktail called the “Martinez” anywhere from 30 to 50 years earlier that calls for nearly identical ingredients just in different proportions. So why am I not writing about the Martinez and calling it the cousin or even the father of the Martini?  Because, again, the timing of the drink’s possible creation is cloudy. Also, Prof. Jerry Thomas (not a Professor) never actually stepped up and claimed that he invented the Martini.  As he was not a man who shied away from grandstanding, we can safely assume he didn’t invent the craze of the 1890’s.

But since the Martini, or variations of it, were popular decades before Martini di Arma di Taggia was tending bar at the Knickerbocker,  we can also assume that not only did he *not* invent the Martini, but that the Marguerite is yet another Martini variation.

So here we have yet another Martini variation:

The Marguerite Cocktail

• 2 ounces classic Gin (Plymouth is traditional)
• 1 ounce Dry Vermouth (Noilly Prat is traditional)
• 1 dash orange bitters

Add ice to a tall mixing glass.
Add all ingredients to the mixing glass.
Stir for at least 15 seconds.
Strain and serve Up in a chilled cocktail glass
Garnish with a lemon twist.

Enjoy!