Martinis: The Case for a Sidecar with Every Sip

The Martini: A Classic Reimagined

The martini, an icon of sophistication and taste, deserves more than just to sit warmly in a glass while conversations ebb and flow. For many aficionados, the ideal martini is complemented by a chilled sidecar, an ice-cold carafe supporting the primary drink, enhancing the experience in every way imaginable. A martini isn't just a drink; it's a statement about elegance, timelessness, and, dare I say, social stature.

The Ritual of the Sidecar

Imagine this: you sit in an upscale bar, perhaps in Soho House, and you're presented with a martini, cool and crisp, its contents glimmering under the dim lights. But what if, beside it, a sidecar awaits? This isn't just any carafe—it's a chilled vessel housing the remaining elixir, giving you the luxury of prolonging each sip. Why is this important? Because we must honor the artistry behind this drink.

"All martinis should have sidecars. You know when you get a martini and there's only a sip in the glass and the rest is in a little baby carafe sitting on ice? That's a sidecar and it should be the law." - Josh Sharp

The Necessity of Cold

The concept may seem trivial to some, an indulgence to the discerning, but consider: as the primary drink warms, its character diminishes. We lose the essence of what makes a martini a martini. Each moment of neglect drags it closer to mundane mediocrity. With a sidecar on hand, you can keep the beverage at its frosty peak. The sidecar isn't just an accessory; it's a safeguard against debasement, retaining the context of what it means to indulge properly.

Why Choose Gin Over Vodka?

Let's address the elephant in the room: gin versus vodka. In a world with endless possibilities, if you're ordering a martini, let's be clear—you are an adult; therefore, choose gin. The herbal complexities and botanical notes stand in stark contrast against the simpler, cleaner profile of vodka. Each sip of a gin martini is an exploration, a journey into flavors that unveil themselves with every taste.

A Degenerate's Delight?

It's worth noting that while the martini is revered, it isn't without its vices. It is, fundamentally, a glass of straight alcohol—the only difference being context. The allure lies in how we present it. In a lavish coupe glass, served ice-cold, it transforms into something regal. But take away that ambiance, and it becomes mere boozehound behavior masqueraded in elegance.

• The martini is a tribute to drinkers of the past—a homage when executed correctly.
• It turns the casual drinker into the polished aristocrat.
• Enjoyment is heightened when sipped slowly, with the sidecar extending the moment.

An Ode to Bartenders

So it stands to reason, when you enter a fine establishment, you make my plea: ensure that my martini is accompanied by its little carafe. The bartender wielding their shaker is not just a drink maker; they are artists crafting history's beloved concoction. Together, we can uphold the integrity of this timeless cocktail tradition.

Join the Sidecar Movement

As I conclude, I urge you to join me in advocating for the sidecar. It's more than just a drink; it's about the whole experience, about caring for the nuances and subtleties of a well-crafted cocktail. Together, let's raise our glasses to the martini, always paired with its loyal sidecar. Choose gin, maintain the cold, and revel in the decadence of it all.

After all, we are all judges of our own indulgences—let's be discerning.