Banderillas Savory Martini

Oscar season is a pretty big deal out here in Los Angeles. Whether you’re in the biz or just overly enthused about the red carpet – most people have been plotting their viewing parties for weeks.

When it comes to entertaining this year, leave the movie-themed gimmicks behind and get black tie fabulous. Nothing screams glitz and glamor quite like a perfectly made martini served in a chic nick & nora style coupe.

Zubrowka Bison Grass Vodka asked me to put on the ritz with and create an Oscar-worthy cocktail...we knew it had to be something unexpected. Especially because this particular spirit is unlike any vodka we’ve tried...as in it actually has flavor! It’s a nicely rounded earthy finish who's sweet vanilla notes would partner perfectly with something salty & acidic –like our favorite happy hour bite: Banderillas.

Banderillas Savory Martini

Makes 1 cocktail

Cocktail Recipe:

1 1⁄2 oz. Zubrowka Bison Grass Vodka

1 oz. Dolin Dry vermouth

1⁄2 oz. dry amontillado sherry

3 dashes peach bitters

Garnished with Banderillas

In a cocktail mixer, combine the vodka, vermouth, sherry, and bitters with ice and shake well. Strain into a coupe and garnish with a skewer of savory tapas.

02_Banderillas Savory Martini | Kristin Guy

Banderillas Recipe:

tuna stuffed olives

cornichons

piquante peppers

Boquerones (White Spanish anchovies)

Wrap olives with Boquerones and arrange ingredients on a cocktail pick.

*Additional Ingredient Suggestions: Cocktail onions, pickled carrots, Jamon

04_Banderillas Savory Martini | Kristin Guy

Since Banderillas are a bite with tons of personality (hello tuna stuffed olives wrapped with white anchovies!!!) I wanted the cocktail to be dry and smooth, with a little bit of snap. Pairing the Bison Grass Vodka with an extra dry Sherry and vermouth + a splash of peach bitters really brings a complexity to your standard ‘tini without being too overpowered by all the bold Banderillas flavors.

Appetizer garnish + sexy cocktail?! Yes please, it’s like two handsome leading men who both take home the gold statue. In a word – winning.

Have you experimented with Zubrowka Bison Grass Vodka? I’d love to know how you’re using it too!

You can find some inspiration by visiting the @zu_usa Instagram page.

This content has been sponsored by Zubrowka Bison Grass Vodka, thank you for supporting our partnership with quality brands that allow dine x design to continue producing original content.