Why Is It Called a Dirty Martini

For those who like their cocktails to have a savoury edge, the Dirty Martini is a delicious, slightly salty, choice. The term ‘dirty’ means that olive brine, usually from a jar of cocktail olives, has been added to the drink. An olive garnish is typically assumed, too.

Why are martinis called dirty?

The classic martini, which contains gin and dry vermouth, is very clean, dry, and aromatic. The color of the drink is as clear as a mountain stream because it only uses clear-colored liquors. The result is that you’ve dirtied the martini, thus the name, dirty martini. …

Why is a drink called dirty?

“Dirty” simply refers to the addition of olive juice or brine. It’s a classic cocktail that is very easy to mix up and one of the most popular variations on the original gin martini. You can make this drink as dirty as you like by pouring the olive juice to suit your taste.