Years ago, when I first began my bartending career, martinis and manhattans where the most popular drinks to pour. Through the years these drinks gave way to what I call the "kiddy drinks". These include Sex on the Beach, Fuzzy Navels, Vampires, Slippery Nipples, and the like. Well, as Bob Dylan would say, "the times they are a changing" ... again!

This time around we have become very creative with our martinis, so creative in fact, that I feel sorry for my lonely bottle of Vermouth. Here are a few examples of these martini modifications.

THE CHOCOLATE MARTINI

Start with a chilled martini glass rimmed with your favorite chocolate syrup. I prefer to use Hershey's syrup.

Then mix your favorite Vodka over ice with Crème de Cocoa. This is shaken please, not stirred.

Strain into the martini glass and add just a drop more of syrup for that rich dark color.

THE VANILLA MARTINI

Mix your favorite vanilla vodka, I prefer Stoli Vanilla, with Liquor 43. This is sweet Mexican flavored Liquor. These two should be mixed over ice.

Once they are chilled strain the drink into your already chilled martini glass.

This is very tasty and ver potent. So lease be careful.

One of personal favorites, although mostly enjoyed by the ladies, is the Cosmopolitan. This drink is not often thought of as a version of the martini because it includes cranberry juice. Please do not be fooled by the color these are just as potent as the rest!

COSMOPOLITAN

Chill your Martini glass.
Over ice chill your favorite vodka. I would suggest Grey Goose Citrus. It is a little pricey but well worth the expense.

Add a splash of Triple Sec, a splash of Rose's lime juice and a splash of Cranberry juice. Just use enough juice to add color.

Then chill and strain into your glass. This drink is sure to please.

Remember when serving these at parties to:

Use a large mixing tin or even a pitcher to mix these.

Pack them with ice first.

The alcohol melts the ice at a very rapid pace, which will do two things. It will stretch the alcohol and make your dollars go a longer way. And,... it will keep your guests from stumbling out the door!

Beer Man's Mixology Department

As always write in suggestions, comments, criticisms, and articles are appreciated. Kevin can be contacted at connections listed on the bottom of every page.