With the firework frights behind us for another year, now begins the Christmas preparations - but panic not as I have the perfect sip to calm those nerves before planning begins.

A gin martini: it's simple, effort free and warms the cockles - just what's needed on a dreary Autumnal night.

A strong favourite (in more ways than one) since the 19th century, the gin martini can be tweaked to your taste. Add a splash of vanilla for a sweeter tinge if you prefer your cocktails to pack a punch but with a splash more flavour.

While we don't recommend the tipple with leftover Halloween chocs, we do recommend it with great company and festive TV.

Cheers!

Ingredients

A frozen martini glass

50ml of gin

1 tsp of dry vermouth

Three olives

A twist of lemon

Instructions

1 In a cocktail mixer, add ice and vermouth. 

2 Stir well and strain out excess vermouth.

3 Add gin, stir again and strain into martini glass.

4 Garnish with three olives or twist of lemon