Social Studies is partnering with Absolut Vodka for a limited-time only holiday kit inspired by the drink of the season—the Absolut Espresso Martini. Designed to help any host elevate their holiday get-togethers, Espresso Martini includes a modern tabletop look, barware, martini glasses, exclusive hosting tips and the option to add on Absolut's Espresso Martini Cocktail Kit. To help you put your best hosting foot forward, we are publishing a two-part series that will give you the tools you need to entertain with style and ease this season. To kick things off, here's mixologist Jane Danger teaching our very own Chief Party Officer, Jess Latham, all about the must-sip cocktail of the holidays—the Absolut Espresso Martini.
In preparation for the season of entertaining, Jess—a seasoned host who is always looking to hone her skills even further—wanted to learn the ins and outs of making the perfect espresso martini, her cocktail of choice to sip on and serve over the holidays. So she called upon the experts at Absolut, the go-to vodka for espresso martinis because of it's rich, full-bodied and complex, yet smooth taste. What transpired was a day chock-full of laughs and lessons with Pernod Ricard mixologist, Jane Danger. Here's what went down...
A little history
Before diving right into the process of making the quintessential espresso martini, Jane first sat down with Jess to give her a lesson on the history of this classic cocktail, and her thoughts as to why it's once again all the buzz:
"Fashion trends often influence the trends we see in the spirits world and right now, we're seeing this 90s resurgence on the runways: baby tees, slip dresses, chokers, scrunchies, etc. In light of this, the espresso martini—the ultimate 90s cocktail—has catapulted in popularity. I must say, it's a fitting ode to the drink and its origins. Referred to by some as 'The (un)official Cocktail of Supermodels', this contemporary classic was mixed for the first time in 1983 in London by the late world renowned barman, Mr. Dick Bradsell. Legend says that when he invented the espresso martini, a British supermodel walked up to him and uttered the famous words: 'Can you please make something that will wake me up and then f**k me up?' The rest is history!"
The making of
Next up on the day's agenda, Jane guided Jess through a step-by-step tutorial on how to make the perfect Absolut Espresso Martini. And if you are looking for a crowd-pleasing cocktail that's rich, velvety and warming to serve at your holiday get-togethers, I encourage you to put on your own bartender hat and follow along!
Step 1: Gather your ingredients
The Absolut Espresso Martini really is that perfect holiday cocktail in that it is simple, yet effective (and of course, delicious). Here's what you need to make one:
1 part Absolut Vodka
1 part Kahlúa
1 part Espresso
Ice Cubes
3 Whole Coffee Beans
Seasonal Garnish (optional)
Pro tip: Purchase the Absolut Espresso Martini Kit via Reserve Bar when ordering Espresso Martini this season. It includes all of the above ingredients, minus the cubes. ;)
Step 2: Espresso, but make it chill
Prepare the espresso first, letting it cool to at least room temperature before any mixing takes place. This helps to minimize dilution, resulting in an even colder and taster cocktail.
Step 3: The fill and shake
Next, fill your shaker with ice cubes, then add in one part Absolut Vodka, one part Kahlúa, and one part espresso. Now the fun part—shake it like you mean it for 15 to 20 seconds! Remember, you want to wake your drink to life, not rock it to bed. This will improve the frothy foam on top of your final masterpiece.
Step 4: Pour, then personalize
Strain the drink into a martini glass, pouring swiftly so that all of that beautiful foam lands on top of your cocktail. Top with three coffee beans and for a real holiday glow up, reach for your seasonal garnish of choice. Absolut's Espresso Martini Cocktail Kit comes with four tasty and festive options: Vanilla Hazelnut, Chili Coco, Pumpkin Spice and Cookies & Cream.
Last but not least
Go ahead and celebrate because you've done it, you've perfected the Absolut Espresso Martini. Here's to many memorable gatherings with friends and family this season, with your favorite cocktail in hand. Cheers!
If you're looking for even more festive cocktails to sip on and serve this season, head on over to Absolut holiday!
