The Tradition of Three Beans in an Espresso Martini: What Do They Mean?

September 12, 2024 by

But it’s those three enigmatic coffee beans, delicately floating on the frothy surface, that’s often the center of attention, and much speculation. What’s the significance behind this tradition, and why exactly are they there? Join us as we trace back its captivating origins and cool symbolism.

The tasty origins of the Espresso Martini

Front view of three decadent Espresso Martini cocktails served with sweet and savory snacks

The Espresso Martini story starts in the heart of the bustling bar scene of 1980s London, where renowned bartender Dick Bradsell crafted this bold drink at Fred’s Club, a hotspot among Brit Pop celebrities and models.

The story goes that a model came in requesting a drink with enough kick to shake off some late-night cobwebs. The result? A delicious combination of vodka, coffee liqueur, and freshly brewed espresso, topped with a luxe layer of crema, and those three coffee beans, of course.

At first dubbed the ‘Vodka Espresso’, this zippy sipper quickly became a hit among London’s elite, occupying the delicious space between the worlds of coffee and liquor in a way that was both innovative and completely irresistible.

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Over time, the drink’s name evolved to the more refined ‘Espresso Martini’, a nod to its presentation in a classic Martini glass. Its popularity spread beyond the London bar scene, with the drink finding its way onto cocktail menus around the world. By the 1990s, the Espresso Martini had solidified its status as a modern classic, a go-to for those who love a kick of java but also adore the glamor of a cocktail.

The global coffee culture boom also contributed to its rise in popularity, with espresso becoming a staple in many people’s daily routines.So, it’s no wonder that it has become a top choice for cocktail lovers as an after-dinner clinker.

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What do the beans in Espresso Martini mean?

Picture yourself in a bustling Italian café, where the air is filled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Patrons are gathered around tables, sipping espresso and enjoying lively conversations with plenty of excited hand gestures to match.

On the fringes of this scene, a bartender skillfully prepares a drink that embodies both tradition and taste—Sambuca served con la mosca, or ‘with the fly’. In this context, the ‘fly’ refers to three coffee beans that float on top of the drink—a subtle yet significant garnish with deep-rooted cultural meaning.

This Italian tradition of placing three beans on top of a drink is more than just an aesthetic choice; it carries powerful symbolism that has been passed down through generations. The three beans are a toast to good fortune, each one representing a wish for health, wealth, and happiness in turn. This custom is a way of offering a silent blessing, a wish for the well-being of those who share the drink.

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But why three beans specifically? See, the number three holds special significance in Italian culture, and around the world. It’s often associated with balance, harmony, and completeness, echoing the spiritual representation of the Holy Trinity in Christian beliefs.

This cultural practice, originally used for Sambuca, ultimately found its way into the Espresso Martini. So, when bartenders delicately place three coffee beans on the frothy surface of an Espresso Martini, they are honoring a tradition that blends artistry with history.

These beans also serve as a visual anchor, a small but powerful touch that connects the person enjoying it to a much broader cultural narrative. It’s a gesture that elevates the cocktail experience, turning each sip into a celebration of health, wealth, and happiness. It’s a beautiful fusion of Italian coffee culture and modern mixology, where every glass is a toast to life’s joys.

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Variations in Espresso Martini garnishes

While three beans are the traditional choice, some variations include using two or four beans instead, each carrying its own unique symbolism.

Some interpretations suggest two beans symbolize love and luck, offering a more personal connection between the drinker and the cocktail. This variation is often used in romantic settings, such as date nights or anniversaries, where the emphasis is on the bond between two people.

On the other hand, the meaning of 4 beans in an Espresso Martini is said to be good fortune and stability. The number four is often associated with grounding and solidity, which makes it a good choice for those who wish to convey a sense of security and long-term prosperity.

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Beyond the number of beans, some bartenders like to get creative with their garnishes. Chocolate-covered espresso beans are a popular alternative, offering a sweet, crunchy twist that complements the drink’s flavors. A sprinkle of cocoa powder or shaved chocolate on top can also add a touch of indulgence and a hint of bitterness that pairs well with the coffee’s rich aroma.

For a more exotic twist, bartenders might garnish with a star anise pod or a cinnamon stick, enhancing the cocktail’s visual appeal and adding a layer of complexity to its flavor profile.

Looking for creative Espresso Martini recipes with an umami kick? Then you’ve got to try the Parmesan Espresso Martini. Adding a grating of Parmesan cheese to a cocktail might sound like a wild idea, but cheese and coffee is a great combo. Go on, be a little adventurous!

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How to make the perfect Espresso Martini

Creating the perfect Espresso Martini involves more than just following a recipe—it’s about mastering the technique and understanding the balance of flavors.

Start with quality ingredients. Use freshly brewed espresso, premium vodka like SKYY Vodka, and a rich coffee liqueur. The freshness of the espresso is crucial, as it brings a bold flavor and a frothy crema that gives the cocktail its signature look. Using high-quality vodka ensures a smooth, clean base that doesn’t overpower the coffee’s taste, while a good coffee liqueur adds depth and sweetness.

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Shake it like you mean it. When preparing the drink, shaking the cocktail vigorously with ice for at least 30 seconds is crucial; this not only chills the drink but also creates the signature frothy top that Espresso Martinis are known for. The foam on top is a hallmark of a well-made Espresso Martini, indicating that the ingredients have been properly emulsified and chilled.
Garnish with care. Once poured into a chilled martini glass, carefully place three beans in Espresso Martini on top of the foam. Using a pair of plating tweezers if you have them really helps. This final touch not only adds visual appeal but also pays homage to the cocktail’s traditional roots, enhancing the drinking experience with a touch of elegance and symbolism.

Keen to elevate your Espresso Martini even further? Consider adding a dash of vanilla syrup for a hint of sweetness, or a splash of Frangelico for a nutty undertone. Adjusting the ratio of coffee to vodka can also personalize the cocktail, making it stronger or smoother depending on preference.

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Next time you enjoy this popular drink, take a moment to appreciate the history and meaning behind those three beans in an Espresso Martini. It’s more than just a garnish—the java-tinged trio is a nod to age-old tradition, and a toast to health, wealth, and happiness. This small yet significant touch roots the cocktail in a rich cultural heritage, transforming it from a simple drink to a ritual that celebrates life’s simple pleasures.

Visit the SKYY Vodka website to explore more recipes and discover the perfect vodka for your Espresso Martini. Don’t forget to sign up for The Mixer newsletter for more cocktail inspiration and tips, and if you shake up your own Espresso Martini, tag us on Instagram—we’d love to see your take on this classic!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Yes, while three beans are traditional, you can use fewer or more beans based on personal preference. Two beans are sometimes used to symbolize love and luck, while four beans are said to represent good fortune and stability, rooted in a sense of security and long-term prosperity. Although these variations are less common, they allow for a personalized touch that can make the cocktail more meaningful for the occasion.

To make an Espresso Martini with the perfect garnish, start by shaking your cocktail vigorously with ice to create a rich, frothy top. Once poured into a chilled Martini glass, carefully place three coffee beans on the foam. This step is not just about aesthetics; it pays homage to Italian tradition and symbolizes health, wealth, and happiness.