The ultimate holiday drink menu requires a perfect martini

The ultimate holiday drink menu requires a perfect martini James Riley British-born gin connoisseur Simon Ford breaks down the components of a proper martini, a staple of any festive holiday gathering. "The martini is a drink that bartenders love," says Simon Ford, cocktail expert and founder of Ford's Gin, who is a longtime fan of the classic. James Riley Thames Distillers recently opened a state-of-the-art bar and tasting room next to the distillery Simon Ford's Perfect Dry Martini "The perfect martini is three or four parts Ford's Gin to one part vermouth, plus a dash of orange bitters; stirred always, with a lemon twist to express the oils – nice and cold, served in a smaller-sized, chilled martini glass. – Simon Ford Ingredients: 2.5 parts Ford's London Dry Gin 0.5 parts dry vermouth Dash of orange bitters Garnish with a lemon peel Method: Step 1 Chill the cocktail glass by placing it in the freezer for at least 30 mins before serving Step 2 Fill a mixing glass with ice, using the best quality ice available Step 3 Pour in the gin, vermouth and bitters Step 4 Use a bar spoon and stir for approximately 30 seconds until icy cold Step 5 Strain the cold martini into chilled martini glass Step 6 Garnish with a lemon peel -- If you liked this story, sign up for The Essential List newsletter – a handpicked selection of features, videos and can't-miss news, delivered to your inbox twice a week.