The Earl Grey MarTEAni is a modern classic cocktail that has gained popularity for its unique blend of flavors and textures. Created by cocktail legend Audrey Saunders, owner of the now-closed Pegu Club in New York City, this innovative Gin Sour variation has become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
Saunders first introduced the Earl Grey MarTEAni in 2003 while working at Bemelmans Bar in Manhattan’s Carlyle Hotel. She was sent to London for a pop-up event at Rivoli Bar inside The Ritz Hotel, where the cocktail made its debut. The drink quickly became a hit and was added to Bemelmans’ menu before Saunders took it with her to Pegu Club in 2005.
The inspiration behind the Earl Grey MarTEAni, as explained by Saunders in the book “Bartender’s Pantry,” is a playful twist on traditional English tea service. The name is a nod to the classic Martini cocktail, but the drink itself pays homage to the tea ritual with a modern twist. Instead of using milk, Saunders opted for egg white to provide a creamy mouthfeel and a perfect balance for the tea’s tannins.
Like all sour cocktails, the key to the Earl Grey MarTEAni lies in balancing the sweet, sour, and base spirit. The recipe calls for a higher proportion of sweet to counteract the dry gin infused with the intense flavors of bergamot, the main component of Earl Grey tea. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness to the drink and enhances the botanical aromatics.
To achieve the desired texture and flavor profile, it is essential to vigorously shake all the ingredients without ice first (dry shake) to fully integrate the egg white. This step creates the ethereal mouthfeel that Saunders envisioned when crafting this cocktail.
Overall, the Earl Grey MarTEAni stands out for its creative combination of ingredients and its nod to both classic and modern cocktail techniques. It has become a staple in the world of mixology and continues to be a favorite among those looking for a unique and flavorful drink experience.
