With Halloween just around the corner, I’m getting excited to mix up a Bloody Martini—it’s the perfect cocktail to set the spooky mood. This drink has just the right balance of elegance and eerie vibes, thanks to its deep red color, which reminds me of a classic horror scene.
Contents
Bloody martini recipe
The bloody martini is a cocktail that combines elements of the classic Bloody Mary with the elegance of a martini. It is designed to deliver the savory flavors of a Bloody Mary while maintaining a lighter texture.

The bold flavors, with hints of vodka and tomato juice or even beet juice for that blood-like touch, make it striking and delicious. It’s a cocktail that not only looks the part for Halloween but also tastes incredible. Trust me, this will be a hit at any ghostly gathering!
Here is how to make the bloody martini:

Bloody Martini
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz dry vermouth
- 1 oz tomato juice or beet juice for a deeper red color
- A dash of hot sauce optional, for a spicy kick
- A dash of Worcestershire sauce optional
- Lemon wedge for garnish
- Black olives or pickled onions for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, dry vermouth, and tomato (or beet) juice.
- Add a dash of hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce if desired.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge and black olives or pickled onions for that spooky touch.
Nutrition
Bloody martini complements various culinary offerings, enhancing the dining experience. You can pair it with:
- Charcuterie boards: The savory notes in the martini accentuate cured meats and aged cheeses
- Seafood appetizers: Oysters and shrimp cocktails find a perfect match in the drink’s briny undertones
- Grilled vegetables: The cocktail’s herbal elements harmonize with char-grilled asparagus or bell peppers
- Chocolate desserts: Dark chocolate truffles or mousse create an intriguing contrast with the martini’s bittersweet profile
Variations
1. Dirty Bloody Mary Martini: This cocktail combines the savory elements of a Bloody Mary with the classic structure of a dirty martini. It’s garnished with olives or pickled vegetables for added flavor. To make this version, you’ll need vodka, olive juice, tomato paste, dry vermouth, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
2. Bloody Mary Martini: generally features gin or vodka, horseradish vodka, tomato water or paste, and sometimes additional ingredients like Lillet Blanc or celery bitters. This version offers a savory yet spicy taste that appeals to those who enjoy bold flavors.
3. Spicy Bloody Martini: For those who enjoy a kick, this variation adds extra spiciness to the mix. It retains the essence of both cocktails while enhancing the spiciness. To achieve the desired heat level without overpowering the cocktail’s other flavors, you need to select the right ingredients:
For a spicy version:
- Infuse vodka with jalapeños or habaneros
- Add a dash of hot sauce or chili liqueur
- Rim the glass with chili salt
For a mild martini:
- Use sweet vermouth instead of dry
- Incorporate a touch of honey syrup
- Garnish with a sweet cherry tomato
4. Non-alcoholic Version: If you have kids, you can let them have a virgin bloody martini. I’ve developed several alcohol-free alternatives that capture the essence of this drink:
- Virgin Crimson Martini: Combines pomegranate juice, non-alcoholic vermouth, and a dash of bitters
- Scarlet Spritz: Blends cranberry juice, alcohol-free gin, and tonic water
- Ruby Refresher: Mixes beetroot juice, lemon, and alcohol-free Campari alternative
These non-alcoholic options preserve the visual appeal and complex flavors of the drink, ensuring that all guests can partake in the experience.