What Is Oyster Vodka And How Do You Mix It Into Martinis?

Oyster vodka is a unique and innovative spirit that infuses the essence of oysters into traditional vodka. This distinctive blend results in a savory, briny flavor profile that captures the maritime essence of oysters. The process often involves adding oyster shells or even whole oysters during distillation, imparting subtle oceanic notes and a slightly creamy texture to the vodka. When mixing oyster vodka into martinis, the goal is to enhance the classic cocktail with a touch of the sea. Start by replacing your usual vodka with oyster vodka, which adds depth and complexity. Pair it with dry vermouth to complement the briny undertones. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of lemon juice or a few drops of oyster brine, which can intensify the maritime character. Garnish the martini with a lemon twist or an olive to balance the flavors. The resulting cocktail is a sophisticated blend of traditional and innovative elements, appealing to those who appreciate a savory twist on the classic martini. This drink is perfect for seafood lovers and adventurous cocktail enthusiasts eager to explore new taste experiences.
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An oyster-flavored upgrade to martinis

Enjoying Osteitra vodka over ice is completely fine, but the team at the Industrious Spirit Company believes this vodka shines in martinis. While some martini purists argue that gin is the only acceptable spirit for this elegant two-ingredient drink, the fictional super spy James Bond, who favors vodka martinis, would disagree. We share this sentiment, provided the drink is stirred rather than shaken, as many connoisseurs argue that shaking can "bruise" the spirit.

As mentioned, dirty martinis and oysters have complementary flavor profiles, so if you want to elevate your dirty martini, simply replace the base spirit with Osteitra for a cocktail rich in umami and enhanced brininess. For those interested in a more unconventional martini recipe featuring oyster vodka, the company's Pearl martini combines a half teaspoon of red wine mignonette—the classic condiment for raw oysters—with cracked pepper and cocktail onions. This unique American vodka retails for $39.99 and is produced in small batches, making it a limited offering.

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