Martinis Go Mediterranean

Christopher Petropoulos

lt’s a wonder that the traditional martini, with its limited ingredient list, continues to spawn new variations. Yet this enduring cocktail classic still provides a fertile playground for creative bartenders who develop new riffs and homages. At Mediterranean concept Balos Estiatorio, the signature Balos Martini takes on the flavors of Greece.

To craft the drink, head bartender Christopher Petropoulos starts with Crop organic cucumber vodka, which lends a clean, vegetal, mildly floral flavor. Grecian Skinos mastiha, a spirit made from a hard plant resin originally found on the Greek island of Chios, lends its own mint-and-pine notes accented with a touch of sweetness. Finished with fresh mint and lime, plus cucumber coins for garnish, the refreshing yet potent libation pairs well with dishes across the Mediterranean menu. “The Balos Martini became one of our guests’ favorites right away,” says Petropoulos. “Everyone loved the uniqueness of this particular cocktail and the way its flavor is tied to Greece.”

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