Inside Dukes Bar for International Martini Day: Crafting the perfect pour
Curated by OB Private, Crafted for You
Dukes Bar, synonymous with precision, ritual and an elegance rooted in heritage, is globally known for one thing above all: its legendary martinis. To celebrate International Martini Day, we sent Ross Harvey – OB Private’s Lettings Director for Mayfair – behind the bar to learn from the best – The one and only Alessandro Palazzi.
A martini at Dukes isn’t simply ordered – it’s experienced. Under Alessandro’s guidance, Ross stepped into a world where every detail is deliberate. The martini glass is frozen. The gin, colder still. Vermouth is present but barely detectable. And the lemon twist – always fresh – is finished with quiet precision.
Alessandro’s technique is effortless yet exact. There’s no flourish for the sake of it. Just respect for craft, and an understanding that simplicity, when done well, is the ultimate luxury.
At OB Private, that sentiment resonates deeply. Whether it’s finding a client the perfect penthouse, curating an off-market villa escape, or hosting an OB Circle gathering, our focus is on considered execution. Personal. Elegant. Unmistakably refined.
In conversation with Alessandeo Palazzi: How to make the perfect martini
We sat down with Alessandro Palazzi at Dukes Bar to understand the details behind his world-famous martini. Here’s what he shared:
What makes the perfect martini?
It’s all about the quality of the ingredients, the glass, and the temperature. Because the martini is all alcohol, it must be served as cold as possible. That’s key to the balance and the flavour.
What is Dukes’ signature approach?
Dukes Bar was the first to serve the martini from a trolley, using frozen spirits and frozen glasses. That technique has become a hallmark of the Dukes experience – precise, consistent and quietly iconic.
Is there a correct way to hold a martini glass?
Always by the stem. This keeps the drink cold and preserves the clarity of the glass. Guests should also specify whether they’d like gin or vodka. It’s important not to confuse the spirit brand Martini with the Dukes martini serve – they’re very different things.
What sets a Dukes martini apart?
It comes down to how we serve it – using frozen alcohol, a frozen glass, organic lemons from the Amalfi Coast, and organic olives from Sicily. The setting at Dukes has the feel of a private club, but our bar is open to everyone.
Is there anything wrong with adding ice?
Not at all. Martinis can absolutely be shaken or stirred with ice. But the Dukes method uses frozen alcohol instead – so guests can savour the drink slowly, without any dilution.
Why does temperature matter so much?
The viscosity of the frozen spirit combined with the oil from the Amalfi lemon creates a better, more refined mouthfeel. It’s smooth, clean, and lingers without harshness.
And finally – is it true you get two martinis in one?
Yes – that’s how it’s designed. The way it’s poured and prepared means you experience different notes from the first sip to the last. It evolves as it warms slightly in the glass. You really do get two martinis in one.
