The Best Espresso Martinis in the World? - Masterclass

[@danielrumbolt]

"Boozy and bitter, just like me." if that isn't a 2020 quarantine MOOD.

[@dogma619]

Hahahahaha dang, that's a good one :)

[@BehindtheBar]

Hahahaha so true.

[@andypaine7489]

Perfect!

[@iatros69]

Indeed. We so need a 2020 do-over

[@KevinKos]

Such a treat to watch cocktail videos that are filled with useful information and great energy, with a wonderful cocktail to boot! Hope you don't mind me using this as inspiration and motivation for my own channel! I'd love to explore Melbourne's coffee&cocktail culture when this crazy situation is over.

[@BehindtheBar]

Of course pal, all about learning from each other! Good luck!

[@StevetheBartender_]

Great video Cara! 🙌

[@BehindtheBar]

Thanks Steve! A love letter to the Melbourne scene while we’re still in lockdown 💕. We’ll send you a DM!

[@iltc9734]

Your videos are a breath of fresh air. As a multi- generational Melbournian, of Scottish descent myself, I love the way you represent our(including you) city. Your partner seems a very nice chap ! Keep up the great work !!!

[@BehindtheBar]

Thanks pal, that means a lot! Fred is Melbourne born and bred as well so a lot of love for this city 💕

[@1olddoggie]

so much great information and an adorable teacher!

[@WineDyn]

Tracked down a bottle of Mr. Black and made one of these tonight. Amazing! Thanks! Love your channel!

[@BehindtheBar]

So glad you enjoyed!

[@MrBlackSpirits]

yeah you did ! Nice WineDyn 🍸☕️

[@FantomMind]

I've been drinking so much espresso martini the past year since I bought an espresso machine. This will only make the frequency go up lol.

[@elisaninis]

I never wanted to have an espresso machine since I barely drink coffee, but now I feel like I need one.

[@UncleSkiBum]

I have a proper prosumer espresso machine and it makes for the best espresso Martini 😎😎

[@TrufflesOnTheRocks]

LOVE THAT GLASS!

[@BehindtheBar]

It’s a beauty isn’t it!

[@persophone4554]

Did a great job capturing the lemon being expressed. Normally never see it clearly on a video!

[@wyattalexander4041]

This is too awesome I just made one of these the other day and it was my best one yet!! My father grows coffee from Nicaragua and I made amazingly fresh espresso martini!! Espresso(1oz) Ron Zacapa Edicion Negra (2oz) (adds sweetness orange and chocolate/coffee notes compliments espresso very well) Orange Saline Mist ( stick with the theme enhancing espresso and rum flavors ) Starbucks Coffee Liquor (.25oz) Optional if more sweetness if desired my brother liked it with this more also added body. Also, I took that idea of the lemon and substituted with orange since I used rum and I was surprised how well it worked! Thanks for another great video cheers 🍸

[@BehindtheBar]

Oh my God that sounds amazing! Post me one please!

[@pebui]

I gotta try one of these next time. Loved the history lesson too. Also the color coordinated attire is a nice touch.

[@BehindtheBar]

Haha unintentional but it did work!

[@jessicali8594]

The best way to wear black: wear it with a more flattering colour, especially near the face.

[@dl8819]

Thank you so much for sharing the history and the local culture with us!

[@azraiel6000]

Will need to make one of these for brunch sometime.

[@enriqueherrera]

I was introduced to the espresso martini by an english bartender in Mexico city in the mid 90's, it's been my go to pick me upper when barhopping ever since.

[@team220s]

Great video on a great channel. I've used both vanilla and lime vodkas to good effect in this cocktail -the lime adds a nice zing.

[@thomascahir]

As a Melbourne based Bartender who lost his job at the start of the year ive been really enjoying binging all these videos! I still have nightmares about the amount of Espresso Martinis I made last summer during the heat.

[@BehindtheBar]

Hahaha yup, I know that feeling! Hope you’re doing ok pal!

[@piltdownman2151]

Mind blown, stunning with Mr. Black 🤯

[@MrBlackSpirits]

Thanks mate

[@TheTribalBarGuy]

Espresso Martini... Love that drink. Amazing flavor and simplicity together. Since I don't have an espresso machine at home I tend to use cold brew, but either way it is a beautiful drink.

[@GregsWhiskyGuide]

Amazing , I didn't even knew it was possible...During these hot summers, I sometimes have iced coffee using a shaker & strainer, but I might try that option now ! Cheers ! and congrats, as always for great documenting about the cocktail history & variants 👍

[@samanthathornton5424]

Cara, great recipe - psyched to try with the lemon! May I please enquire as to where you sourced that amazing glass?

[@BehindtheBar]

It worked really well! The glass is from Hotel Agencies in Melbourne 😊

[@samanthathornton5424]

@@BehindtheBar Thanks!

[@mudsplash2522]

Great video! Makes me proud to be a Melburnian! If we only we could get out of the house to enjoy one....

[@BehindtheBar]

We’ll get there!

[@zenandstimpy]

Brilliant episode. Loved the background info.

[@Pxtl]

Thoughts on using a Moka pot with espresso instead of a proper espresso maker?

[@BehindtheBar]

I haven’t tried it personally but quite a few commenters have said they have! As long as you brew nice and thick and strong I don’t see why it wouldn’t work 😊

[@johnnyrascal6109]

When it comes to the Melbourne vs Sydney comment.. the only thing I have ever seen in the world that even comes close to the Montreal vs Toronto battle. Keep up the good fight! 💪

[@BehindtheBar]

🤣

[@jamesprice4647]

Just bought an Italian stove top expresso maker and a bottle of Aunty Mary, which has vanilla added. This is such a good channel and a book must be the next venture. I have to say I am tempted to use two ounces of vodka ...

[@BehindtheBar]

I won’t tell if you don’t 😉 the joy of a home pour!

[@SamuelWebster1337]

legit the best espresso martini ever, love this recipe so much

[@BehindtheBar]

So glad you like it pal!

[@elisaninis]

I don't usually drink coffee, but when I drink it, it has vodka! Thank you for sharing this with us, I hope I can get my next espresso martini by the weekend...or maybe this afternoon? I'm partying in my room anyways. Lots of love from Brazil

[@rafaelnardiiii]

I like to make Espresso Martinis with Rum! Especially a lightly aged 😬 what are your thoughts on this? I wish I could buy Mr.Black here, I tried it only once and was overwhelmed...

[@BehindtheBar]

Love a rum espresso martini! One of my favourite bars here makes theirs with Plantation. Also tequila works well too 😊

[@Pxtl]

Jamaican or Cuban?

[@EK-ej3ll]

That Mr Black liqueur is actually really good. Good enough to sip over ice.

[@MrBlackSpirits]

thanks legend 👌

[@zzanenghi]

Found Mr. Black while traveling in California. Can’t wait to make it home to try this recipe. 😎

[@Barprints]

If you're not making it yourself, it's Mr. Black and Tia Maria for sure👍

[@Justin-nr1mj]

Finally a recipe for my Patron coffee liquor. 😃 I make my coffee in a Moka pot.

[@vaettra1589]

I just made a variant of this, 3/3/3 of coffee, Mr Black, vodka and 1cl Disaronno (Amaretto) instead of the sugar syrup. Soo delicious!

[@konradkurz8353]

Super interested to hear about the history of the drink and especially it's popularity in Australia! When I spent half a year in South Australia, I did notice the espresso machine in bars and was curious. Now I know one of the reasons that they kept it around ;P Another great video, and I like the additional of Mr. Black.

[@MarcAmAlb]

Now I’ll have to try it!

[@potdog1000]

just trying it & love what i am trying, thank you

[@piltdownman2151]

What a drink!!! It is absolutely incredible.! Where has it been all my life? Did I say I like it?

[@BehindtheBar]

Haha a convert, love it!

[@pinkwaferlover]

Having a resurgence indeed... keeping us awake and amused whilst working long hours from home! I normally use Kahlua for this as it's sweet enough to not need extra syrup. Seen a few channels use Mr Black now so I'll have to check that out. The lemon twist is neat too! I have to try that, and maybe an orange twist as an alternative. Finally I might try throwing some Irish whisky in there instead of vodka, but I'm pretty sure that's an entirely different drink 😂

[@BehindtheBar]

Orange twist is a great idea! Honestly this is one that I don’t think changes if you change the base spirit- I love it with tequila or rum as well and it’s still an Espresso Martini!

[@scottriley7145]

As a Sydney-sider and coffee snob... I can't really disagree with you. Melbourne is our coffee capital. 😁

[@BehindtheBar]

☕️ 💯

[@Sonicjet567]

Made this for the first time tonight. Super delicious! I didn't get a good head on the drink though, any tips?

[@BehindtheBar]

So glad you liked it! Fresh coffee, good hard shake and fresh ice are the holy trinity usually...

[@Sonicjet567]

@@BehindtheBar Oh ok so it's probably something to do with my coffee then, because I shake pretty hard. Thanks! Love your videos!

[@ChemicalMarco]

Not a huge fan of Espresso Martini but there's something oddly satisfying on getting that foamy head once strained into che glass! Makes everyone happy! I do not have a coffee machine at home so I use my italian moka and the result is decent! Cold brew is also very good (try making a cold brew with chopped hazelnuts and diced dried figs!). Love Mr Black, I don't think there are better coffee liqueur on the market nor I am interested to find them! Very interesting and entertaining videos, as usual! Good work, cheers!

[@stefanminchev1857]

Thank you for the great and comprehensive video! P.S. nice La Marzocco

[@BehindtheBar]

Thanks pal! Steam wand is great haha.

[@ginafriend1690]

Love all your bits of history starting out! Love Espresso Martinis! I add chocolate covered Espresso beans for the wealth, health and Chocolate happiness 😊 Cheers! They are sure to be eaten 😉

[@BehindtheBar]

Ooh yum!!

[@erikfrisk]

Your channel is an absolute delight! I always leave with a smile, confident that I will create an amazing drink at home (happens I fail).

[@bandabanderos]

You mentioned Canada-did you live there? Asking cause I’m in Canada

[@BehindtheBar]

Yeah,Vancouver for a year 😊

[@samdove8929]

Thanks for all these videos, have found them extremely helpful. Knowing the origin or the drinks and learning from someone with a real passion for making them is invaluable. Just a quick question - if we are substituting the espresso for lets say little drippa, would we still use the Mr Black coffee liqueur as well? cheers

[@samuelvogler3250]

Hi @Behind the Bar. I always feel like I've learned something watching your channel! One question: why do you always measure ice in large shaker tin before transferring it to the small shaker? Just a bartending habit or is there a reason to it?

[@BehindtheBar]

Haha actually just because the ice scoop where we shoot is plastic and doesn’t look that nice- I used another tin the first time and have stuck with it cause I always forget to bring a nicer looking scoop!

[@samuelvogler3250]

@@BehindtheBar Thanks guys! Love your videos and looking forward to the next.

[@EJofKC]

Ha Ha Cara! This time I already HAD the Mr. Black in my home bar!!

[@BehindtheBar]

Ideal!

[@MrBlackSpirits]

my man ! 👌

[@yvelf]

is it me or did Cara look really happy when filming this vid? either way, excellent vid. love the history portion of the cocktail. SALUD!

[@BehindtheBar]

Definitely a happy place!

[@mightytom1]

Cara always seems to look really happy. Her smile balances out the bitterness within. 😂

[@enochc3858]

This is a great video - very educational! I love both coffee and gin...(thanks to my 8 years in Sydney). Melbourne is always the coffee heaven in my heart :P

[@BehindtheBar]

💯

[@MixDrink]

Спасибо за отличный ролик

[@richm5975]

Just tried it this evening and it is awesome. Had to buy some additional bar tools and a moka pot for the espresso but well worth it. Disappointed that we could not find the Mr. Black liquor in Virginia but Trader Vic"s Kona Coffee liquor worked well. Thank you for sharing the receipe.

[@BehindtheBar]

Love the dedication!

[@MrBlackSpirits]

While we have distribution in DC and MD, we are still working on expansion to VA. Our bottleshop ships to VA for the time being: shopmrblack.co

[@Feuerbasis]

Love the glas you use. Top 5 Drinks ever created. Patron XO Cafè DARK 30ml Vodka 30ml Espresso 5ml sugar syrup Thats my favourite.

[@TheFeralBachelor]

Love Mr Black coffee liqueur!

[@MrBlackSpirits]

thanks Kevin ☕️🍸

[@Sage4x4]

My 3 favorite things in the same video. Booze, Coffee and a perfect bar tender with an exotic accent. I could spend hours at your bar talking about everything and then nothing :)

[@casperlohman]

It is such an amazing cocktail. I prefer using a lighter roast with floral and citrus notes, so the lemon makes so much sense. A dash of chocolate bitters is an interesting variation and carries the drink in a whole other direction. If you’re adventurous try adding tonic. Espresso tonic is a well known mix. The mix between the bitter and citrusy notes in both the martini and the tonic are a perfect refreshing marriage.

[@BehindtheBar]

I’ve played around a bit with coffee soda type ideas but haven’t quite nailed it, tonic is a good shout for that extra sweetness. Thanks!

[@appalachianexploration5714]

"Boozy and bitter just like me" the half Irish side of me laughed amd the french side of me said you must find a woman like thatx) I do so love this channel.

[@gutrotten]

So thankful for this, I have struggled making my own

[@joshuamire2721]

They've been big in Houston, TX for at least the past 6 years. Just about every restaurant has a version of it. Very tasty start to the night.

[@edbutler3]

Not sure if many other subscribers watch your videos cast to a TV screen like I do -- but for those of us who do, it would be helpful to include the full recipe in graphics towards the end of the video. I know I can pull up the video from my KZbin history to see the description (like I did just now to comment), but having it on screen at the end would be very convenient. BTW, made a Paper Plane tonight that I learned about from your video. Cheers!

[@BehindtheBar]

Hi Ed, thanks for the suggestion. We used to do this on earlier videos but the drop off in views was so steep we stopped doing it. If it's helpful we can look at it for future episodes though. Hope you enjoyed the Paper Plane, it's a fantastic drink! 🍸

[@jameshalfpenny4726]

Brilliant video

[@BehindtheBar]

Thanks pal!

[@mmoruzi]

I make mine with maple syrup instead of sugar syrup. Yum!

[@nolikeygsomnipresence270]

Could you do a Godfather? Is it just Scotch and Amaretto?

[@BehindtheBar]

Yes and yes! Simple and delicious after dinner drink.

[@nolikeygsomnipresence270]

@@BehindtheBar Cheers!

[@womensrights]

This is one of my all time favorite drinks. I make them at home for my friends and they are very well received. I use about half a bar spoon of chocolate Sirup instead of the simple Sirup. I also add about 20ml of whole milk right before shaking. Makes it frothier I garnish with a very small dab of whipped cream with three coffee beans resting on top.

[@BehindtheBar]

Indulgent!

[@stephane.foisy.186]

Unfortunately Mr Black in not available in my region in Canada but we do have a few locally made with my favourite being a barrel aged Turkish coffee liqueur that is not overly sweet (less than Kahlua). These are quite tasty when chilled and properly made.

[@BehindtheBar]

Sounds yum!

[@brianpeck3120]

Where can I buy the "Behind the Bar" book? ;-)

[@BehindtheBar]

Maybe one day!

[@KillJoy83]

Any opinions about using Licor 43 for that hit of vanilla and a bit more complexity? I've been itching to get that bottle out of my bar a little more often.

[@BehindtheBar]

It’s definitely a common addition and could easily be subbed for the vanilla syrup!

[@KillJoy83]

@@BehindtheBar thanks will try it!

[@creatirv]

For home or outdoor espresso making, try to use the Nanopresso portable machine.

[@frenzykitty]

That looks awesome. I'm formally requesting an episode on Carla's ultimate Bloody Mary!

[@BehindtheBar]

Stay tuned...

[@frenzykitty]

I meant Cara. Phone autocorrected lol. Looking forward to it

[@BehindtheBar]

Gareth Graham dead to me Gary.

[@frenzykitty]

@@BehindtheBar Hahaha. I will have to finally try the Corpse Reviver...

[@Barprints]

Love the vanilla syrup in this! Cheers

[@linusling9560]

Here I am to be blessed with another video

[@nealg3546]

Cara, maybe I missed it, but have you ever done a video about the Brandy Alexander?

[@BehindtheBar]

Not yet! I’ve done a Sherry Flip and a Rum Eggnog in a similar vein, but would love to tackle the Alexander soon 😊

[@nealg3546]

Behind the Bar Had one in Berlin in a little hole in the wall years ago that blew my mind. Glad I clicked the bell. I’ll be keeping an eye out. Cheers!

[@gintonic5770]

You guys have the best close-ups of releasing the zest oils! With my attempts it doesn't feel as effective like you demonstrate :o

[@BehindtheBar]

Josh (behind the camera) is a magician!

[@Adiscretefirm]

Thank you for presenting this classic the way it should be, although I was always a vanilla vodka,Tia Maria and no simple bartender. Nothing pains me more than to see a coffee flavored vodka, Kahlua, and Bailey's passed off as an espresso martini.

[@pbr-streetgang]

And knowing is half the battle !☕️🍸

[@jdm3gee14]

If i ever open a bar, This is definitely going to be on the morning cocktail list.

[@BehindtheBar]

I just love that your bar is going to have a morning cocktail list haha, sign me up!

[@jdm3gee14]

@@BehindtheBar It's going to be one of those places where service industry workers can enjoy some time off after their bars and restaurants close for the night. Much love, cheers!

[@BehindtheBar]

Murray Manchanthasouk love that!

[@ericcrabtree6245]

Recently found my local cocktail supplies store carries Mr Black and I’ve made their Cold Brew Old Fashioned recipe on the label. It’s a great variation - will definitely give this one a try!

[@BehindtheBar]

A few other inspirations for you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e2GUk3yvbdVseac

[@neilmccabe7440]

Espresso martini with King Brown. Quick, delicious and authentic. No hassle.

[@ssala1997]

I normally drink espresso without sugar, so i always found kahlua way too sweet. I have started to sub it with Amaro Averna (riserva Don Salvatore) and it works beautifully! And - great video!

[@BehindtheBar]

Yum!

[@snarestep]

Do you or Fred know the original specs? I may be wrong but I have heard it was 2oz Vodka 1oz espresso, 1/2oz kahlua... Sounds a bit hectic but definitely fits the brief

[@BehindtheBar]

I have also heard this, with 5ml of sugar and Zybrowa as the base. I also saw some murmurings of him using 2 different coffee liqueurs but I couldn’t find anything concrete I’m afraid! I reckon Difford’s Guide is probably the closest to his original as he’s obviously consulted for their article on it...

[@vincentjacobsmm]

"So, it must be an Australian invention right?" - Wrong Gah, a rollercoaster of emotions this one

[@redrockpictures8097]

I’m a sucker for this cocktail and, as always, some brilliant tips and tricks. I fear I’ll be putting this one to good use way too many times lol

[@BehindtheBar]

😈

[@jaikumarvenkatchari3838]

Hi Cara, with a Vodka that's not got as high an alcohol content as the one you used in this video,would you go 60 ml?

[@BehindtheBar]

You definitely could without throwing it out of balance 😊

[@JoeyIndolos]

I don’t know if I should be embarrassed to admit this, but this video is the first time I’ve heard of the espresso martini. But considering that you made it only three times before you moved to Melbourne, I’m somewhat reassured 🙂 As a coffee loving drinker, I find the idea intriguing, and will give it a shot (pun intended). I also love cocoa and mocha, so I’d also like to experiment along those lines. Are there already any alcoholic drinks that use these?

[@BehindtheBar]

Of course not! But definitely get on it haha. Honestly I’m not too sure about mocha specifically but hoping to do more coffee content soon 😊

[@noahkohn9350]

Would a drop or two of high quality vanilla extract and simple syrup be a reasonable substitution for the vanilla syrup?

[@BehindtheBar]

For sure!

[@squirrely102]

That looks good! I've always wanted to try one..maybe after covid I can finally order one from a bar haha or maybe I'll just make one at home

[@Barprints]

Hope you tried it at home. Super easy and you definitely won't be disappointed

[@SAELIOSMUSIC]

i prefer a decafe roast & splash godiva vanilla liqueur for a more frothy body but pretty much same build

[@willywonka6527]

Wow... Never heart of that drink before. Must try it☺️

[@johnolmos8670]

I make mine 1 oz vanilla vodka, 1 oz Mr.Black, 1 oz Espresso and a barspoon Liquor 43. It’s a little sweet but I enjoy it

[@MrBlackSpirits]

legend, John !!

[@ursamines7643]

I use to be a barista and using hot espresso get sour because of rapid oxidation (less then 60 seconds). Switching 1:1 for cold brew is perfect and has less of a sour acidic taste/smell. Add some Rumchata and you got a boozy latte.

[@Justin-nr1mj]

Rumchata sounds like a great addition 👍 👍

[@mightytom1]

Three things: 1) I could be imagining it, but I think the sugar syrup might be contributing to the formation of the foam. Have you ever tried doing a side-by-side comparison with another espresso martini made without any simple syrup? 2) I’ve noticed that Mr. Black (and other craft distillery coffee liqueurs) have some sediment of fine coffee grounds that settles at the bottom. Do you shake the bottle before pouring from it, or do you let that sediment stay until the last few ounces for an extra jolt? 3) If you ever have the good fortune to visit Milwaukee, Wisconsin, I STRONGLY recommend stopping by a local craft bitters and liqueur distillery called Bittercube. They have a coffee cocktail that is simply their own in-house coffee liqueur shaken into a froth and lightly dusted with smoked sea salt. It’s absolutely amazing, and rightfully the most popular cocktail on their menu. Alas, the only place to get it is at their bar.

[@BehindtheBar]

Sounds delicious! The sugar syrup definitely helps with the body of the drink, I find they can be a bit think without it even if you up/use a sweeter coffee liqueur. I usually just let the sediment stay to be honest!

[@MrBlackSpirits]

Sediment preference is up to you! Shake or leave, still tastes delicious

[@mightytom1]

@@MrBlackSpirits Well, of course YOU would say that! 😜

[@piotrzaleski9845]

Finally, I thought you forgot about this

[@BehindtheBar]

Never!

[@julzlo7016]

I wish we could get Mr black in Canada. Heard so many good things about it. I absolutely hate how sweet Kahlua is.

[@BehindtheBar]

I’m sure there would be a good local one nowadays, the Canadian coffee scene is good as well!

[@poltergeistx]

I'd gather a very good substitute would be coffee brewed in a moka pot; definitely want to make this soon!

[@BehindtheBar]

Definitely! Just make it nice and strong 😊

[@poltergeistx]

@@BehindtheBar as it should! Fully loaded filter and dark as the night, hahaha! Thanks!!!!!

[@gintonic5770]

Cara, how did you find your way to Australia? :)

[@BehindtheBar]

Aeroplane ✈️ 😜

[@gintonic5770]

@@BehindtheBar._. *sigh* 👏🏻 I set ya up for that, didn't I😂

[@jakobfriedrich5117]

Man that glass is gorgeous. Any chance someone knows where to get them?

[@BehindtheBar]

I’m honestly not too sure about this one, can’t remember if it was an op/charity shop or local hospitality suppliers (Hotel Agencies if you’re in Melbourne!)

[@jakobfriedrich5117]

@@BehindtheBar well I'm based in germany but thanks anyways. Love your channel!

[@monsieurszo]

Do you have your book? I love to buy one

[@BehindtheBar]

Maybe one day 😉

[@andygilbert1877]

Don’t remember them from the 80s but they’re very popular here in Devon now. I know we’re a bit behind London but 40 years?! ;)

[@BehindtheBar]

You’re just at the forefront of the renaissance 😉

[@andygilbert1877]

Behind the Bar I’ll take that! 😎

[@untropezon]

Loved it

[@tristanbowser6533]

I just made this recipe for the first time, but didn't feel like waiting for my vanilla syrup to finish, so I subbed for Tempus Fugit Creme de Cacao. This is hands down the best espresso martini I have ever had! Everywhere in my area serves them way too sweet. I am a huge fan of bitter or sour over sweet though, so I'm definitely biased in that respect. The lemon twist sounds slightly strange to me, but works so beautifully, I would definitely miss it if it wasn't there. Cheers!

[@zaloo]

i believe espressos in, say, italy, are served with a lemon twist to mellow the brew. its funny how citrus oil can mellow the bitterness of coffee..

[@ItsMe-fs4df]

Love me an Espresso Martini. No surprise coming from Wellington, New Zealand (you know, the coffee capital of the world... Come at me bro) Although I did have my first Dominicana at the start of the year in Melbourne... So I guess I have a soft spot lol. Never heard that three beans thing before, I'm totally gonna pull that out in dinner conversation... And butcher the pronunciation