As simple as it gets

Though there can be innumerable derivatives of the martini, the quintessential drink is basically gin and vermouth, in varying proportions, and served in a conical stemmed glass with either a slice of lemon or a green olive. And it is its simplicity that makes the martini such a great cocktail. It is available in both classic and flavoured variants, the latter replacing the gin with, preferably, vodka.

Indulge, with The Oberoi in New Delhi, looks into what gives the martini a place of pride among other cocktails.

The signature martini, or the basilico, at The Oberoi is gin with lemon and basil—the basil adding a freshness and sweetness to offset the dry, bitter flavour the cocktail would have otherwise.

Also See | London Dry Gin (PDF)

Photographs: Priyanka Parashar/Mint

neil.r@livemint.com