Celebrate Espresso Martini Day with an Espresso Martini (Obviously)

If there’s one thing we love at Wine Enthusiast, it’s a good drinks-themed holiday. And the next one we’re celebrating is Espresso Martini Day, on March 15.

Originally created in 1980s London by the legendary bartender Dick Braswell, the espresso martini has escaped the shoulder pad and acid-washed jeans era to become one of the most popular cocktails on menus today. Now in middle age, the drink has also matured, evolving from the days when it was a saccharine milkshake-like concoction into something more refined. Is it too soon to call it a classic?

Composed of vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur and simple syrup, the drink offers a sweet jolt of caffeine plus the buzz from spirits. Plus, like your morning coffee, it’s infinitely customizable. Add a sprinkle of pumpkin spice, a flurry of Parmesan cheese (trust us) or even creme de cacao. Thanks to the drink’s recent ascent, there are also now excellent canned cocktails, no measuring or mixing required.

We’ve rounded up our favorite recipes and ready-to-drink products below.

The Real Espresso Martini

As with any recipe, quality ingredients matter. This espresso martini is made with real espresso. It’s a favorite for people who enjoy a drink with strong coffee flavors and a bit of sweetness. A short-pull guarantees a concentrated shot, though any espresso can be used.

The Non-Alcoholic Espresso Martini

No, the non-alcoholic espresso martini isn’t just a coffee. The drink is made with an NA spirit to give it a silky texture just like the real thing. Try it with a vodka or rum alternative.

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The Parmesan Espresso Martini

The viral Parmesan espresso martini shook social media to its core. Cheese? On a cocktail? It’s actually delicious. Writer Arielle Weg describes the recipe as a “beautiful balance of sweet, salty, sour, umami and bitter notes.” See what all the internet fuss is about for yourself.

The Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini

Flavored with real pumpkin and coconut milk, the pumpkin spice espresso martini is the flavor of fall in a martini glass.

The Wednesday Addams

Coffee and chocolate is a classic pairing and these flavors come together in the Wednesday Addams, a drink inspired by a scene in the hit Netflix series.

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The Eggnog Espresso Martini

The eggnog espresso martini—which features nutmeg, coffee and eggnog (storebought or homemade)—can be served sans spirits or with a dash of your favorite Christmas cheer.

The Tip Top Espresso Martini

Moving into the category of canned cocktails: Wine Enthusiast spirits reviewer says the Tip Top Espresso Martini, which is made with Counter Culture coffee, is worthy of the most discerning coffee snob and notes that it has flavors of “light espresso bitterness and hints of blackberry and plum skin, finishing long and silky, with just a trace of sweetness.”

Moth Espresso Marini — Image Courtesy of Moth Drinks

Moth Espresso Martini

Made with Wood Brothers vodka, Moth’s canned espresso martini impressed Newman with its fresh-roasted flavor and light, creamy texture.

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