Make Your Own Martinis

For some of you, a make-your-own martini date will be just what the doctor ordered. Others will feel like you've been sentenced to a weekend at a Shriner's convention.

There are two schools on how to make the perfect martini. We have included both methods. Try them and see which you prefer.

COST

The shaker and the liquor will be an expensive investment—from $45 to $60 total, unless you buy some really fancy booze, and then it can be more.

WHERE TO BUY THE SHAKER

Liquor stores often sell bar supplies.

On the internet, try www.barsupplywarehouse.com for good deals. You might also try www.barproducts.com, www.prokitchen.com and www.abestkitchen.com/store/bar.html. Keep in mind that any savings you get over the net might be eaten up by shipping costs.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

A shaker with lid, strainer, spoon, martini glasses. The damage will be under $25, unless you get leaded crystal or sterling. Vodka or gin. For a challenge, try different brands of vodka and make martinis from each. Which do you like the best? Vermouth. Use sparingly. Olives, onion, lemon twists. Ice and food! Martinis can pack a wallop. Get some food in your stomach ahead of time.

IF YOU SHAKE IT

Put the bottle of vodka, the shaker and the glasses in the freezer. This is a good thing to do the day before your date.

Take the shaker out of the freezer and add ice. Pour in 4 ounces of vodka (gin can be used if you prefer) and a small splash of vermouth. For an extra-dry martini, don't pour in any vermouth. Instead, swing the bottle over the shaker and let its vapor settle on the vodka.

After the ingredients are in the shaker, put on the lid and shake it for 15 seconds. Then put the strainer on the shaker and pour the ingredients into chilled glasses. Add an olive, lemon twist or onion and enjoy.

IF YOU STIR IT

Put the bottle of vodka, the shaker and the glasses in the freezer ahead of time.

Do the same as with the shaker method, except you don't shake. Instead, you slowly stir the ingredients and the ice in the shaker with a long-handled spoon. Watch the ice. When the edges of the ice just begin to melt, the martinis are ready. This shouldn't take longer than a minute. Then, put the strainer on the shaker and pour the mixture into chilled glasses.

DRIVE NOT, OH DRUNKEN ONE!

Under no circumstances should you or your date drive home; if offers of wanton sexual decadence don't keep he or she at your place, be sure to call a cab.