Banana Martinez

Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes for Banana Martinez

Sheringham Distillery creates an exotic twist on the classic Martinez cocktail by combining Beacon Gin with premium sake and tropical banana liqueur. This sophisticated drink delivers complex layers of flavor through its unique scotch rinse technique, creating a memorable experience that balances fruit, florals, and spirits.

How the Banana Martinez Flavors Develop

The scotch rinse hits your nose first, adding subtle smoke and peat notes. Your first sip reveals the delicate florals from Beacon Gin’s cherry blossom botanicals, followed by the clean, crisp character of daiginjo sake. The banana liqueur adds tropical sweetness without overwhelming the drink. The finish combines the gin’s yuzu citrus notes with lingering banana and a whisper of scotch. For those preferring less sweetness, reduce the banana liqueur to just a bar spoon.

Recipe Variations and Customizations for Gin Cocktails

The Banana Martinez offers multiple customization options for different palates and occasions. Consider these variations to make this sophisticated gin cocktail your own:

• Replace the scotch rinse with mezcal for a smokier profile
• Substitute Japanese whisky for scotch to enhance the Asian influence
• Use Sheringham Seaside Gin for a more botanical-forward version
• Add a dash of chocolate bitters to complement the banana
• Serve up in a Nick & Nora glass for a more delicate presentation
• Create a lower-ABV version by increasing sake and reducing gin proportions

Equipment, Preparation and Make-Ahead Tips for Banana Martinez

Creating the perfect Banana Martinez requires proper tools and technique. Essential equipment includes a mixing glass, bar spoon, jigger, and strainer. The coupe glass should be chilled in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before service.

Step-by-Step Preparation for This Gin Cocktail

• Pre-batch the gin and sake mixture up to 2 hours ahead
• Store banana liqueur at room temperature for best flavor release
• Use large, clear ice cubes for stirring to minimize dilution
• Rinse the glass with ½ oz scotch, swirling to coat completely
• Stir cocktail for 30-40 seconds until properly chilled
• Express lemon oils over the drink before adding the twist garnish
• For parties, pre-rinse glasses and store in the freezer

Perfect Occasions and Food Pairings for Banana Martinez

The Banana Martinez shines as an aperitif cocktail, ideal for sophisticated dinner parties and special celebrations. Its complex flavor profile makes it perfect for culinary experiences during spring and summer evenings when the botanical notes can truly shine.

Complementary Food Pairings with Beacon Gin

This cocktail pairs beautifully with Asian-fusion cuisine, particularly sushi and sashimi where the sake component creates harmony. Consider serving alongside duck gyoza, miso-glazed eggplant, or tempura vegetables. For cheese pairings, aged manchego or creamy camembert complement the banana notes. Light desserts like green tea panna cotta or yuzu sorbet make excellent endings. The cocktail also works well with West Coast seafood dishes.

Cocktail History and Similar Gin Drinks

The Martinez cocktail dates back to the 1880s and is considered the predecessor to the modern Martini. This banana variation represents the modern craft cocktail movement’s approach to reimagining classics with unexpected ingredients. The combination of gin and sake reflects the Japanese-inspired botanicals in Beacon Gin.

Related Cocktails in the Martinez Family

• Classic Martinez with sweet vermouth and maraschino
• Traditional Martinez recipe from Sheringham
• Hanky Panky with Fernet-Branca
• Tuxedo cocktail with dry vermouth and absinthe
• Aviation with crème de violette

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations for Banana Martinez

The Banana Martinez contains approximately 180-210 calories per serving, with most calories coming from the alcohol content. The banana liqueur contributes 8-10 grams of sugar, while the sake adds minimal sugar content. The cocktail contains roughly 2 standard drinks worth of alcohol, making it a moderately strong cocktail.

This cocktail is naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free spirits and sake. Most banana liqueurs are vegan-friendly, though some may use honey in production. For a lower-calorie version, reduce the banana liqueur by half and add a few drops of banana extract. Those avoiding alcohol can create a mocktail version using non-alcoholic gin alternatives and amazake (sweet rice drink) in place of sake. Always verify specific brand ingredients for allergen concerns. Sheringham Distillery offers detailed cocktail information to help create drinks that suit various dietary needs.