The first time I tried a Martinez was at Anvil Bar & Refuge. Ever since, I have been obsessed. While the Martinez predates, and inspired, the martini—and even though the construction is similar—the two cocktails could not be more different. 

Old Tom Gin is a barrel-aged gin that is oaky, sweet, and auburn in color. Sweet vermouth, too, is much richer than the dry variety found in most modern martinis. Lastly, maraschino liqueur adds a hint of cherry and yet another splash of sweetness. The orange bitters help mellow the drink a bit and the twist of orange zest imparts citrus oils into the drink, helping extract even more flavor from the gin and vermouth.

I'd describe the Martinez as a sweet, rich, complex martini, one that's great before a meal but even better after one with dessert. 

INGREDIENTS

• 2 oz. Old Tom Gin
• 1/2 oz. sweet vermouth
• 1/4 oz. maraschino liqeuer
• Dash orange bitters
• Orange zest

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Pour the gin, vermouth, maraschino liqeuer into a shaker filled with ice. Add a dash of orange bitters. Stir the drink for 30 seconds, or until the sides of the shaker become frosty. 
2. Strain the drink into a cocktail glass. Twist orange zest over the drink and serve.