Millionaire Martini Madness

Martinis were in vogue decades ago, but in recent years they have made a huge comeback. During Prohibition the authorities didn’t come down hard on gin manufactures so the martini became popular during the 20th century. There are martini bars, vodka bars and an even wider assortment of martini recipes. The martini, at its most basic, is merely a combination of gin and vermouth that is garnished with an olive, onion or lemon twist. Some of the newer creations are so varied there seems to be a martini for everyone’s tastes.

World’s Most Expensive Martinis

Tokyo Midtown Tower at the Ritz-Carlton in Tokyo, Japan

In 2007 when this building was christened, the Ritz-Carlton created this James Bond martini to celebrate. It’s called, “Diamonds Are Forever” and is called “decadence in a glass” by some. The mix is made with chilled Grey Goose vodka, a lime twist and another twist – a flawless one-carat diamond. You get to keep the diamond. Price: $18,000

Blue Bar at the Algonquin Hotel in New York City

This martini is one of the most expensive martinis in the world. It’s called the Martini on the Rock. It’s made with Grey Goose, which can be pretty pricey, but for the price per glass you hope it is a very large martini. In truth, it’s not the kind of “tini” one would order more than once in their life, in theory at least. The special ingredient of this classic drink is a diamond engagement ring. The drink’s price is listed at $10,000, but of course the cost of the ring could easily increase the cost of the drink. A 72-hour notice is required.

Lobby Lounge and Bar at the Ritz-Carlton in St. Louis, MO

This incredible martini is as tasty as it is costly. It’s called the Grand XIII martini and is made from the Louis XIII de Remy Martin cognac that costs $2,000 a bottle. Of course, it’s served in a Waterford crystal glass that the patron is encouraged to keep. Any martini lover will think it a small price to pay for this amazing cocktail. Price: $500

Martini Glasses for Millionaires

When you’re drinking martinis with friend’s at the wet bar in your home, you want to make sure you have the coolest and most fun glasses to drink from, right? If you’re going to sit out by the pool, you won’t need to take the crystal, but when you’re inside you may as well use the best you have. Here’s our top selections for this year’s selection.

Swarovski Crystalline Cocktail Glasses

Who wouldn’t love to party with these? They are sparkly and decadent with stems that are filled with clear crystal chatons. The base of the glass is made from a large faceted clear crystal. These will look great with flavored martinis that are colorful. Price: $200 each

Baccarat Crystal Vega Martini Glass

These full-lead crystal glasses are handcrafted and make an exquisite presentation. Although these are clear, if you like more fun colors they also come in yellow, red and blue. Price: $155 each

Waterford Crystal Martini Glasses – Lismore Pattern Tall

Classy, distinct and obviously Waterford, your friend’s will love your fabulous Martini Party even more. Plus they won’t break the bank at about $90 per glass.

The Perfect Martini

This is the most popular recipe for the classic Dirty Martini. The ingredients are simple, but here is a big tip – keep the martini glasses in the freezer or refrigerator. There is nothing like drinking the perfect martini in chilled, crystal martini glass. All you need is your favorite vodka – Grey Goose is always a great choice  - and some olives and olive juice.

Directions: 1-1/2 oz. Vodka and 1 splash Olive Juice into a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into the chilled martini glasses. Garnish with an olive or two.