World Martini Day

Today is World Martini Day.

If you were to ask where to drink the best Martini in Rome, there would be many possible answers. But if you love classic cocktails, there is one bar I would recommend without hesitation, Stravinskij Bar, located in the courtyard of one of Rome’s most iconic luxury hotels, Hotel de Russie.

The bar takes its name from the Russian composer Igor Stravinsky, who frequently stayed at the hotel. Step through the entrance and the noise of the city seems to disappear. Surrounded by lush greenery, the space feels like a hidden garden in the heart of Rome.

Travelers from around the world, local guests who appreciate Rome’s hotel bar culture, and cocktail enthusiasts in search of the perfect drink all gather here. The reason they come is not simply because it is beautiful. There is a deep respect for classic cocktails at the heart of this bar.

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The Beauty of Simplicity

That philosophy is embodied by Bar Manager Mattia Capezzuoli.

After building his career at some of Italy’s most respected bars, including Milan’s legendary Camparino in Galleria, he now leads the bar team at Hotel de Russie.

Mattia is often recognized for his awards and impressive management skills, but what cocktail lovers should pay attention to is his philosophy. After years of experience, he has come to a simple conclusion,

Classics are what matter most.

In today’s bar scene, elaborate presentations and innovative techniques often take center stage. Mattia takes a different approach.

A perfect Negroni.

A perfect Martini.

A perfect Champagne Cocktail.

It almost seems that the more experience someone gains, the more they return to simplicity. Just as those who truly understand their craft eventually choose essence over excess, the Martini stands as the ultimate symbol of that idea.

There is nowhere to hide in a Martini. Every detail matters. The bartender’s skill is revealed exactly as it is.

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Italian Vodka: Altamura Distilleries

The Martini served here is made with vodka from Altamura Distilleries.

When most people think of vodka, Poland or France usually comes to mind. Altamura Distilleries is different. It is made from durum wheat that has been cultivated in the southern Italian region of Puglia for more than 2,000 years.

(As a side note, Altamura is a town in Puglia, southern Italy, famous for Pane di Altamura, one of Italy’s most celebrated traditional breads.)

What makes this vodka unique is its natural grain character. It is not simply neutral; it has flavor and personality. At the same time, it harmonizes beautifully with vermouth, creating a softer Martini that allows the richness of the grain to shine through.

We plan to write more about Altamura Distilleries Vodka in a separate article, but perhaps there is no better way to understand its character than through a Martini. The simplicity of the cocktail leaves nowhere for the spirit to hide.

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Beyond a Glass of Martini

What makes Stravinskij Bar special goes far beyond the quality of its cocktails.

Sitting at the counter, you watch one beautifully crafted drink after another make its way across the bar. The atmosphere is elegant and refined, yet there is no wasted movement. The service is polished and seamless.

That level of perfection does not happen by accident.

The bar, the restaurants, the service team, and the hospitality of the entire hotel all work together to create a single, cohesive experience.

At the center of it all is Mattia.

His commitment to preserving the classics and refining simplicity reflects the very spirit of the Martini itself.

That is why, on World Martini Day, it is difficult to imagine a more fitting place to enjoy one.

In Rome’s secret garden, with a perfectly chilled Altamura Distilleries Vodka Martini in hand, it becomes a truly memorable experience.

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Recipe: Altamura Distilleries Martini

60ml Altamura Distilleries Vodka

20ml Mancino Dry Vermouth

2 dashes Orange Bitters

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Stir all ingredients with ice until well chilled.

Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass and garnish with a lemon peel.

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Martini Variations at Hotel de Russie

Classic Dry Martini

Choice of gin or vodka

Dryness adjusted to preference (wet or dry)

Garnished with either olives or a lemon twist

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Dirty Martini

Made with olive brine

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Breakfast Martini

Gin-based cocktail

Salvatore Calabrese’s signature creation using orange marmalade

Considered one of the modern classic cocktails enjoyed around the world

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