Newport RI Foodie Shares How-to Make Reverse Martinis

Rhody’s-own content creator Teon Owen Cromwell, Jr. has been posting cocktail-making videos on his social media since 2021 (@newportrifoodie, across all platforms including YouTube and TikTok). Here, he shares some inspiration to get you through Dry January.

Cocktails are such a huge part of the holiday season, but is Dry January still a thing?

Dry January is still a thing because there are plenty of people out there who are very health conscious or don’t drink at all. I’ve also noticed that some people who do drink during Dry January tend to go the low-ABV route (which stands for “alcohol by volume” and refers to drinks with a lower alcohol content), or stick to a mocktail. This January I’m drinking an Upside-Down Martini, aka the Reverse Martini. It’s a variation on the classic martini that flips the proportions, which makes it a low-ABV cocktail.

Tell us why you like this drink.

I love the simplicity of this drink. It’s easy to make and a very smooth cocktail to drink, emphasizing all of the characteristics of vermouth, a fortified, aromatized wine characterized by a complex flavor profile.

What makes this drink special for wintertime?

I think it’s a perfect wintertime drink because after months of eating a lot of heavy foods, this drink is lighter, and it’s a nice fireside sipper.

What is the history of this martini?

Although there is no exact history of the Reverse Martini, many date its roots back to the early 1900s. Although a specific “inventor” is not documented, most people identify it with Julia Child, who called it her favorite version of a martini. Its reversal of traditional proportions brings back elements of pre-Prohibition-era drinks and is known for being a lower-alcohol option.

What are tasty snacks to pair with your martini?

I like to have cheese and crackers and even potato chips with this drink. One time I had potato chips with crème fraîche and caviar and that was delicious!

When you go out for a drink, where are places in RI you like best?

Troop PVD in the capital city, a craft cocktail and wine lounge in Newport called Bar 12, and The Wharf Fishhouse & Tiki Bar on Bowen’s Wharf have amazing cocktails. My favorite gin and tonics are from Tavern on Broadway in Newport.

RECIPE

Upside-Down Martini, AKA the Reverse Martini

Ingredients:

• 2 oz (60 ml) dry vermouth
• 1 oz (30 ml) gin
• 1 dash orange bitters (optional)
• Lemon peel or olives, for garnish

In a mixing glass, add all of the ingredients, plus ice, and stir vigorously until well-chilled (about 30 seconds). Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass, garnish with a lemon peel or olives and serve immediately.