St. Patrick’s Day Cocktail Idea: Guinness Espresso Martini

The classic espresso martini is a delicious cocktail in and of itself, but it is also a great base for the creation of other cocktails. If you enjoy any of the delicious coffee drinks that you can pick up at Starbuck’s or another great local coffee shop, you can imagine any number of variations of the espresso martini.

Many coffee drinks start with a roasted bean with notes of chocolate. Guinness is a traditional irish beer, a go to on St. Patrick’s day, with a dark, rich body and chocolate notes originating from the roasted barley. If you’re looking for a delicious fusion of coffee and chocolate notes in a cocktail, the Guinness Espresso Martini is a great option.

What’s in a Guinness Espresso Martini?

• Guinness Draught: The star of the show, providing its signature roasted barley flavors, creamy texture, and subtle bitterness.
• Espresso: A shot of freshly brewed espresso is essential for that intense coffee punch.
• Coffee Liqueur: Kahlúa or a similar coffee liqueur adds sweetness and enhances the coffee notes.
• Vodka (or sometimes Irish Whiskey): Provides the alcoholic base, allowing the other flavors to shine. Some recipes will opt for Irish Whiskey to enhance the Irish theme of the drink.
• Simple Syrup (Optional): To balance the bitterness and add a touch of sweetness, if desired.
• Garnish: Traditionally, coffee beans are used. For the Guinness version, you might try a dusting of cocoa powder, a few coffee beans, or even a light foam on top.

Flavor Profile: A Dark and Delicious Dance

The Guinness Espresso Martini offers a unique flavor experience:

• Rich and Roasty: The Guinness brings deep, roasted barley flavors, reminiscent of dark chocolate and coffee.
• Bold Coffee Kick: The espresso delivers a powerful jolt of caffeine and intense coffee flavor.
• Creamy Smoothness: The nitrogenated Guinness creates a velvety texture, making it incredibly smooth and satisfying.
• Subtle Sweetness: The coffee liqueur and optional simple syrup balance the bitterness, creating a harmonious blend.
• Slightly Bitter Finish: The Guinness’s signature bitterness adds complexity and depth.

The Espresso Martini’s Rise to Fame: A Brief History

Before we dive deeper into the Guinness variation, let’s take a moment to appreciate the classic Espresso Martini.

• The Birth of a Classic: Legend has it that the Espresso Martini was invented in London in 1983 by bartender Dick Bradsell.
• The “Vodka Espresso” Origins: The story goes that a famous model asked Bradsell for a drink that would “wake me up, and then f*** me up.” Bradsell combined vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and sugar, creating the iconic cocktail.
• From “Vodka Espresso” to “Espresso Martini”: While originally called the “Vodka Espresso,” it eventually became known as the Espresso Martini, despite not containing any vermouth, a key ingredient in traditional martinis.
• A Resurgence in Popularity: The Espresso Martini has experienced a massive resurgence in recent years, becoming a staple on cocktail menus worldwide. Its appealing combination of caffeine, sweetness, and a sophisticated presentation has made it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.

Why the Guinness Twist Works

The addition of Guinness to the Espresso Martini adds a layer of complexity and depth that elevates the drink. The roasted flavors of Guinness complement the espresso perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of bitter and sweet. The creamy texture of the Guinness also adds a luxurious mouthfeel.

Finding Your Perfect Guinness Espresso Martini

Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or a curious newcomer, the Guinness Espresso Martini is worth trying. Explore different variations and find the perfect balance of ingredients to suit your taste.

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