Here’s a hot take: the best espresso martini without vodka is actually better than the classic version. Skip the neutral spirit and try something with real flavor—I’ll explain.
Vodka is a popular choice for classic martinis, along with or instead of gin. That makes sense when you’re mixing just two ingredients, vodka and dry vermouth, as the aim is to create a tart, sharp, boozy drink that feels decadent in the way only a classic martini does.
I prefer the flavors that come through from a gin-based martini myself, but one thing I can absolutely appreciate about vodka is the texture or mouthfeel that it brings. When really cold, vodka becomes thick and almost chewy and adds a great texture to a drink that works well for a classic martini.
Why you should try an espresso martini without vodka
An espresso martini, however, is quite a different beast. The typical espresso martini recipe calls for coffee liqueur, fresh espresso, and vodka and is often sweetened with sugar syrup or flavored syrups. Between the thick coffee liqueur and the additional syrups, this drink doesn’t benefit much from the texture of the vodka. In this case, vodka mostly just adds alcohol—providing a boozy backbone and sharp finish.
And while there are plenty of good, quality vodkas that do have interesting flavor profiles, these flavors tend to be subtle and are easily lost in a busy, sweet cocktail like the espresso martini. So why not use a different spirit instead, one that brings a more robust flavor to this coffee cocktail?
The best liquor for an espresso martini
That’s why my choice of spirit for an espresso martini is spiced rum. Spiced rum tends to be pretty sweet, so there’s no need to add additional sweeteners, but it brings a rich molasses flavor and notes of cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg. Those all go wonderfully with coffee and add to the drink’s rich complexity.
Rum espresso martini recipe (no vodka!)
Ingredients
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3 parts spiced rum
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2 parts fresh espresso
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1 part coffee liqueur
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Optional: egg white or aquafaba, pinch of salt, salted caramel syrup
Method
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Combine spiced rum, espresso, and coffee liqueur in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Cover and shake vigorously for approximately 30 seconds. Then pour the mixture into your glass.
If you’re not convinced, try it out! I like to shake well with an egg white or aquafaba to create a nice foam. Add a little pinch of salt or some salted caramel syrup if you have a really sweet tooth, and enjoy this spicier take on the ever-popular cocktail.
FAQs
Can you make an espresso martini without vodka?
Yes, and in fact, it can taste even better. Spiced rum adds richness and complexity that vodka lacks.
What liquor is best in an espresso martini?
Spiced rum complements coffee flavors beautifully. It’s sweet, bold, and pairs well with espresso and coffee liqueur.
Is spiced rum sweeter than vodka?
Yes. That’s why you can often skip simple syrup when using rum in your espresso martini.
