Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini has long been a favourite for good reason. Combining coffee, sweetness and spirit, it brings together bold flavour and smooth texture in a single serve. Our take introduces Monkey Shoulder Original, adding the depth and character of blended malt Scotch to a modern cocktail classic.
First created in London's cocktail scene during the 1980s, the Espresso Martini remains a staple of bars around the world. Monkey Shoulder offers a different perspective on the serve, with notes of vanilla, orange and mellow spice complementing rich espresso and coffee liqueur. The result is balanced, indulgent and full of flavour.
The combination of coffee and whisky feels both familiar and unexpected. Bright espresso notes sit alongside the smooth character of the malt, creating a cocktail that works equally well as an after-dinner serve or the centrepiece of an evening spent with friends.
Approachable to make at home and rewarding to perfect, the Monkey Shoulder Espresso Martini proves that small changes can bring a fresh perspective to a well-loved classic.
Ready to shake one for yourself? Follow the recipe below and discover how blended malt Scotch can transform an Espresso Martini. Simple to make, difficult to forget.
Intermediate
5 min
Coupe
shaker
strainer
bar measure
for batches - a coffee pod machine
55 people voted
Make it at home
Ingredients
Method
1
Add Monkey Shoulder, espresso and coffee liqueur to a shaker.
2
Shake hard with ice until foamy.
3
Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
4
Garnish with three coffee beans.
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Bartender tips & tricks
Adjust the Sweetness
The balance of an Espresso Martini is easy to tailor to your taste. Add a little sugar syrup for a richer, sweeter serve, or keep it drier to let the coffee and whisky take centre stage.
Keep Everything Cold
Chilled ingredients and glassware help create a smoother texture and a more refreshing serve. Preparing everything in advance also helps maintain the character and consistency of the cocktail.
Use Fresh Espresso
Freshly brewed espresso brings depth, aroma and the crema needed for a well-made Espresso Martini. The better the coffee, the better the finished drink.
Double Strain for a Smoother Serve
For a cleaner texture, strain the cocktail through a fine mesh strainer as you pour. It's a simple step that helps remove any small ice shards or coffee grounds, resulting in a more polished serve.
Look After the Foam
The signature foam layer is part of what makes an Espresso Martini so distinctive. Pour carefully into the glass to preserve the texture and presentation, allowing the crema to settle naturally on top.
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