The 50/50 Martini represents a delicious balance, featuring equal measures of gin and dry vermouth, a twist of lemon for garnish, and a hint of orange bitters. This drink has made a remarkable journey through the years, from its formulaic establishment to its eventual decline in popularity, only to re-emerge as a celebrated classic amidst the era of cocktail resurgence.

Although the classic dry Martini - made up of similar ingredients as the 50/50 but with gin to vermouth ratios from 3:1 to 8:1 - has cloudy origins, it’s generally believed to be birthed in various pre-Prohibition bars from New York City to San Francisco. Some drink historians suggest that the 19th-century copper-toned Martinez, borne of equal parts Old Tom gin and sweet vermouth, was the harbinger of the dry Martini.

The late 1800s saw the typical combination of dry gin and vermouth, occasionally peppered with bitters, gain popularity. This simple yet effective template was a fertile ground for mixologists keen to experiment. Enter the 50/50 Martini, its existence first documented in the famous 1930 The Savoy Cocktail Book by Harry Craddock. However, as the decades rolled on, vermouth gradually fell out of favor and most cocktail enthusiasts leaned towards the gin-dominant dry Martini.

Fast forward to the early 2000s, the cocktail scene underwent a revival, and the 50/50 Martini was part of the resurgence. Sasha Petraske, a trailblazing mixologist from the popular New York City bar Milk & Honey, is usually recognized for pulling this drink back into the limelight. Rumor has it, he was inspired to add it to his menu after witnessing its popularity during a trip to London.

The 50/50 Martini's charm lies in its reduced alcohol content, making it a cocktail that can be enjoyed over longer sessions. The gin and vermouth you choose, plus the range of bitters selected, will significantly affect its flavor. Opting for a traditional London dry gin with classic French vermouth conjures a more classic taste. Conversely, a gin packed with botanical notes, paired with a richly aromatic vermouth, can serve a more heady aroma.

Enhancing this cocktail with a dash of orange bitters adds a punch of citrus brightness, lending intricacy to the balance of the botanicals.

To create a classic 50/50 Martini, you will need 1 1/2 ounces of gin, 1 1/2 ounces of dry vermouth, a dash of orange bitters, and a lemon twist for garnish. Begin with adding gin, dry vermouth, and orange bitters to a mixing glass. Fill with ice and stir until chilled. Finally, strain into a cold cocktail glass, garnishing with a twist of lemon for the perfect finish.