The Chai Martini is a decadent, spiced-glass of comfort that bridges the gap between a cocktail and a cozy latte. By blending creamy textures with aromatic botanicals, we’ve created a drink that feels like an afternoon by the fire—even if you’re enjoying it out on the trailside patio.
The Details: A smooth, botanical-forward martini featuring warming spices and a velvety finish.
Price: $10
The Build:
- The Spirit: 360 Vanilla Vodka.
- The Infusion: A proprietary blend of aromatic chai spices.
- The Texture: Premium cream liqueur.
- The Upgrade: Make it “Dirty” by adding a shot of espresso for a caffeinated kick.
Vanilla, Spice, and “Going Dirty”
We use 360 Vanilla Vodka because it offers a clean, natural bean flavor without the cloying, medicinal aftertaste found in many flavored spirits. It acts as the perfect canvas for the chai, enhancing the creamy notes of the liqueur while providing a subtle sweetness that rounds out the bold spices.
The Craft: Why “Make it Dirty”?
In the world of coffee cocktails, “making it dirty” is a nod to the “Dirty Chai”—the popular coffeehouse order where a shot of espresso is added to a chai tea latte. By adding a shot of our coffee concentrate to this martini, you add a layer of roasted bitterness that cuts through the creamy sweetness of the liqueur and vanilla. It deepens the flavor profile, giving the drink a more robust, “grown-up” edge and a welcome boost of energy.
The Point Nine Experience: A Comforting Classic
The Chai Martini is a lush and aromatic choice that is particularly wonderful as the Kansas evening air begins to cool. It is an incredible partner for our Salsiccia Pizza. The warming spices of the chai—like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger—perfectly complement the savory fennel and herbs in the Italian sausage. It’s a sophisticated pairing that feels like a full culinary experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What spices are in the “Chai”? You’ll taste a classic blend of black tea, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and clove, all of which provide that signature “warming” sensation.
Is the cream liqueur heavy? It provides a silky mouthfeel, but because we shake it vigorously with ice, the drink remains light and elegant rather than being as heavy as a milkshake.
How “dirty” is the espresso shot? Adding the espresso changes the color from a light cream to a beautiful café-au-lait tan and adds a distinct roasted flavor without overpowering the delicate chai spices.