![Chandelier Martini](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.foodandwine.com/thmb/Z6HwZlnHfCL9GqWfCLCoAjI4bDQ=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Chandelier-Martini-XL-RECIPE1022-2000-e62c4e6f464a400baca4728f721496f4.jpg)
Stirred exactly 24 times, this classic martini is made extra special with the addition of Chandelier Magic, a citrusy and aromatic homemade blend of bitters. Herbsaint, an anise-flavored liqueur historically used in lieu of absinthe in New Orleans, brings a subtle herbaceousness to the Chandelier Magic, which pairs perfectly with the slightly–sweet Old Tom-style gin.
While this recipe calls for three gins, they each bring a unique flavor and combine elegantly in this aromatic martini. The juniper-forward Bombay melds with the botanical Hendrick's with notes of cucumber and rose, the Old Tom-style gin diminishes any harshness from the other gins and brings depth and complexity. The round sides of a martini-coupe help lift this cocktail's floral aroma as one sips.
A rare martini which can truly shift from cocktail hour to dinner, the Chandelier Martini is surprisingly smooth and gentle, making it very food-friendly. Don't forget to hold on to the extra Chandelier Magic; the bitters mixture is delicious with some simple seltzer water for a refreshing, low-ABV spritz, or try a dash or two in your next gin and tonic.
Ingredients
Chandelier Magic
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1/2 tablespoon (1/4 ounce) grapefruit bitters
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1/2 tablespoon (1/4 ounce) maraschino liqueur (such as Luxardo)
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1/2 tablespoon (1/4 ounce) Herbsaint
Martini
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3 tablespoons (1 1/2 ounces) Bombay Dry Gin
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3 tablespoons (2 ounces) Hendrick's Gin
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1 1/3 tablespoons (3/4 ounce) dry vermouth (such as Carpano Blanco)
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1 tablespoon (1/2 ounce) Old Tom-style gin (such as Henry Ramos, Hayman's or Aviation)
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6 dashes Chandelier Magic
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3 pitted vermouth brined olives, lemon twist, pickled mirliton, for garnish
Directions
Make the Chandelier Magic:
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Stir together all ingredients. Transfer to a small dasher bottle or empty bitters bottle. Chandelier Magic can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 month.
Make the martini:
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Combine Bombay Dry Gin, Hendrick's Gin, vermouth, Old Tom-style gin and Chandelier Magic in a mixing glass. Add ice and stir 24 times. Strain into a chilled crystal martini-coupe glass. Serve garnishes on the side in a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.