The “Porn Star Martini” is a glamorous, fruity cocktail that has become a staple in many bars and restaurants around the world. Known for its vibrant presentation and unique pairing, this cocktail is as bold in name as it is in flavour.
Despite the provocative moniker, the drink itself is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and tropical elements. Here’s everything you need to know about the cocktail, from its origins to how it’s served.
History and origins
The Porn Star Martini was created by Douglas Ankrah, a renowned bartender and mixologist from London. Ankrah came up with the drink in 2002 at his bar, Townhouse, located in Knightsbridge. He wanted to create something that was indulgent yet approachable, a drink that would leave a lasting impression both in taste and appearance.
As for the name, Ankrah has mentioned in interviews that it was inspired by the playful and fun nature of the drink, as well as the glamorous and sometimes risqué world of cocktail culture. While the name might raise eyebrows, it’s all in good fun and has undoubtedly contributed to the cocktail’s allure and popularity.
Ingredients and flavour profile
The Porn Star Martini is essentially a passionfruit-flavored cocktail with a base of vanilla vodka. The drink is known for its balance of sweetness and acidity, providing a refreshing yet indulgent experience. Here’s a breakdown of its key ingredients:
- Vanilla Vodka: The backbone of the cocktail, vanilla vodka adds a smooth, sweet warmth that pairs perfectly with the tropical flavours.
- Passionfruit Liqueur: The star of the show, passionfruit liqueur gives the drink its signature tropical flavor and aroma.
- Passionfruit Purée or Juice: For added intensity and freshness, passionfruit purée or juice is often used, enhancing the fruity flavour.
- Lime Juice: A splash of lime juice helps to balance out the sweetness, giving the cocktail a pleasant tangy finish.
- Prosecco or Champagne: What sets the Porn Star Martini apart from other cocktails is the shot of sparkling wine that is served on the side. Traditionally, a small shot of Prosecco or Champagne is presented alongside the martini to be sipped or poured into the cocktail, depending on personal preference.
How it’s served
A Porn Star Martini is served in a chilled martini glass, with the drink shaken and strained to ensure a smooth texture. A halved passionfruit is often floated on top as a garnish, adding a visual pop and reinforcing the tropical theme.
The signature accompaniment of a sidecar shot of Prosecco or Champagne is what truly makes this drink stand out. Some enjoy sipping the bubbly alongside the martini, while others may choose to pour it into the drink to dilute and complement the flavors. Either way, it adds an extra layer of sophistication and fun.
Variations
While the classic Porn Star Martini is beloved for its balance of passionfruit and vanilla, bartenders around the world have put their own spin on the drink. Some variations include using flavored syrups, substituting vanilla vodka for regular vodka or gin, or swapping out the passionfruit with other tropical fruits like mango or pineapple.
Popularity and cultural impact
The Porn Star Martini has grown from a niche cocktail in London to an internationally recognized drink. Its eye-catching presentation, delicious taste, and playful name have made it a popular choice for celebrations, parties, and Instagram-worthy moments. It’s become a symbol of indulgence and fun, often associated with glamorous nights out.
Despite some controversy over the name, the drink’s popularity continues to soar. In fact, it was one of the most ordered cocktails in the UK for several years, cementing its place as a modern classic in the cocktail world. Cementing it even further? The Porn Star Martini has been going viral on TikTok in recent weeks exposing the fruity martini to a whole new audience.
