Two Modern Twists on the Iconic Martini Recipe: Your Guide to Celebrate World Martini Day Your Way in 2026
- Written by: Times Media
Few cocktails have achieved the cultural status of the martini. A fixture of cocktail culture for decades, the iconic serve has even earned its own day, with World Martini Day to be celebrated on Saturday, 20 June 2026.
Simple, sophisticated and endlessly adaptable, the martini continues to captivate new generations of drink enthusiasts. Whether discovered through a fresh take on TikTok or perfected at a favourite local bar, there is a martini to suit every taste and occasion.
This World Martini Day, Australians are invited to elevate their at-home bartending skills with help from Regal Rogue, Ukiyo Spirits and Crystal Head Vodka. With Regal Rogue’s Australian Vermouths, it’s the perfect way to add an Australian spin on the classic, tailorable drop.
Whether served ice-cold with classic Crystal Head vodka, infused with delicate botanicals from Ukiyo’s Gin offerings or balanced with a premium Australian Regal Rogue vermouth, the martini offers a canvas for personal preference while retaining the classic characteristics that have made it one of the world's most celebrated cocktails. Especially as consumers continue to seek quality over quantity when entertaining, the martini remains a go-to choice thanks to its refined flavour profile, versatility and understated glamour.
To mark the occasion, here are two contemporary martini recipes that showcases how your spirit choices can transform the classic cocktail into something uniquely memorable and beautifully tailored to the individual palate.
Regal Rogue Dripping Wet Martini
For the lower ABV curious and those who indulge in the saltier things in life, look no further than this serve from Regal Rogue, which spotlights the savoury, umami-driven character of its World’s Best Dry Daring Dry vermouth. 
Ingredients
- 45ml Regal Rogue Daring Dry Vermouth
- 30ml Crystal Head Vodka or Ukiyo Tokyo Dry Gin
- 2-4 Olives or Capers for Garnish
Method
Mix Regal Rogue Daring Dry with either a Dry Gin or Vodka in a cocktail jug over ice, stir for 18 seconds and pour into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with either olives or capers
Crystal Head Classic Martini
For purists, the classic vodka martini remains the benchmark. This clean and crisp serve highlights the purity of Crystal Head Vodka while allowing the cocktail's signature simplicity to shine.
Ingredients
- 75ml Crystal Head Vodka
- 10ml Regal Rogue’s Daring Dry Vermouth
- Olives or cocktail onions for garnish
Method
Stir all ingredients for 18 seconds over ice until well chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with olives or cocktail onions.
As cocktail culture continues to evolve across Australia, the martini's enduring appeal lies in its ability to feel both classic and contemporary. With a focus on quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation and effortless elegance, this World Martini Day offers a chance to further personalise your standard sip.
All products are available for purchase at Dan Murphy’s or premium independent retailers nationwide.
