What is a standard garnish for a martini?

A standard garnish for a martini is an olive, which serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. The olive adds an element of saltiness and umami to the drink, enhancing its flavor profile. Typically, a green or black olive is chosen, and it is often skewered on a cocktail pick or inserted into the drink.

Using an olive aligns with the classic representation of a martini, enhancing the drink's sophisticated and timeless nature. While other garnishes, such as a lemon twist, can be found in variations of the martini—particularly the gin martini where the twist can add a refreshing citrus aroma— the olive remains the quintessential garnish in terms of traditional martini presentation.

Other options, like a cherry or mint leaf, are not commonly associated with martinis. A cherry is more closely linked to drinks like a Manhattan or certain tropical cocktails, while the mint leaf signifies a completely different cocktail style, such as a Mojito. These garnishes wouldn’t typically complement the distinct flavor profile of a martini.