RUM ESPRESSO MARTINI

Even a blind man these days can feel the vibe that the Espresso Martini brings. Since around 2015–2016, this famous classic from the 1980s has been slowly—but confidently—making its way into the world of modern, trendy cocktails. And it’s not being pushed by the power of big brands, like tequila/mezcal and the Paloma, or whiskey highballs. Nor is it riding the wave of some famous movie moment, like James Bond’s Martini or the scene from Fifty Shades of Grey where the main character orders a G&T. No.

This trend has no clear explanation. It’s just the hype—organic, explosive, and still very much alive—that, over the past two years, has reached its peak.

People walk into bars and order rounds of Espresso Martinis without even glancing at the menu. And it’s not just a one-off after-dinner drink anymore. Somehow, the Espresso Martini has become a drink for the whole night—and even the end of the night—where more and more people are ordering them as shots for the final round. Somehow, the Espresso Martini has gone beyond that famous Kate Moss quote:

“Something to wake me up and f**k me up.”

So where’s the catch? Why is this hype still going strong?

No big brand, no celebrity, no film or influencer is promoting this cocktail in the 21st century. Nothing “famous”—except the few essential characters who created it: espresso, distilled alcohol- in particular case vodka, coffee liqueur, and Dick Bradsell—the bartender. And we can easily blame this handful of characters, especially the bartenders, for the cocktail’s rise in the 2020s.

With the rapid evolution of cocktail mixology, bartenders’ creativity has exploded in every direction. Now we see Espresso Martinis made with vodka, rum, even whisky—paired with different espresso blends, crafted with house-made or obscure coffee liqueurs. With or without sugar. Tweaked this way or that.

Every serious cocktail bar is now developing its own Espresso Martini recipe, constantly raising the bar for what the “perfect” one should be.

Today, we’re bringing you…

5 UNKNOWN SECRET FACTS ABOUT THE ESPRESSO MARTINI

1.

The Coffee Bean Garnish Has a Hidden Meaning

The three coffee beans traditionally used as a garnish aren’t just decorative; they represent health, wealth, and happiness—a nod to Italian culture and the “con la mosca” tradition from sambuca.

2.

The Foam Isn’t Just Aesthetic—It’s Science

The thick crema (foam) on top of an espresso martini is achieved by shaking the cocktail vigorously. This emulsifies the oils from the coffee and binds them with the alcohol, creating a signature silky texture.

3.

There’s a Secret to the Perfect Espresso Shot in It

The key to an outstanding espresso martini is using fresh espresso that hasn’t sat too long. If the coffee is stale, the drink loses its aromatic complexity and the crema won’t form properly. Some top bartenders even let the espresso cool for a minute to avoid overheating the cocktail.

4.

Some Bartenders Use Salt for Extra Depth

A tiny pinch of salt (just like in high-end coffee brewing) can enhance the flavors of an espresso martini, making the chocolate and caramel notes in the coffee and liqueur more pronounced.

5.

Bartenders Have a Love-Hate Relationship with It

The espresso martini is one of the most labor-intensive cocktails for bartenders during busy shifts. Making fresh espresso, shaking vigorously, and achieving perfect foam takes time, which is why some bartenders groan when they get a flood of orders for it. However, many also take pride in crafting the perfect one!

And since we are page dedicated to promoting rum culture, we are bringing you one more rum espresso martini video.

Take a look.