What is the Olivette Cocktail?

The Olivette is one of my all-time favorite French martinis. It’s a refined cocktail that brings together dry gin , Noilly Prat dry vermouth , and the delicate sweetness of St-Germain elderflower liqueur , garnished with a single green olive . It’s floral, crisp, and wonderfully elegant—a beautiful choice for apéro hour or a summer dinner party.

What ingredients do I need to make an Olivette Cocktail?

You’ll only need four ingredients: ½ oz St-Germain 1 oz Noilly Prat dry vermouth 1 oz dry gin (I like to use Bombay Sapphire for its floral and citrus notes) 1 green olive , for garnish

In true French fashion, the method is simple and sophisticated: Add the gin, vermouth, and St-Germain to a cocktail shaker filled with ice . Shake well until the drink is fully chilled . Strain into a chilled martini glass . Garnish with one green olive . That’s it!

Why use St-Germain in a martini?

St-Germain is what makes the Olivette truly special. This elderflower liqueur brings soft floral and fruity notes—think pear, peach, and a hint of citrus—that round out the intensity of the gin and vermouth , creating a balanced, aromatic cocktail that’s both strong and smooth.

Is the Olivette a strong cocktail?

Yes—like most martini-style cocktails, the Olivette is spirit-forward. But thanks to the St-Germain , it feels more refined and approachable , making it a lovely apéritif, even for guests who don’t usually choose martinis.

Can I stir instead of shake?

Absolutely. While I often shake the Olivette for a crisp, icy finish, you can also stir it in a mixing glass with ice if you prefer a smoother, silkier texture. Both are delicious—choose what suits your mood.

Is the olive garnish important?

Oui, oui! The green olive is not just for show. It adds a subtle briny contrast to the floral sweetness of the St-Germain, grounding the cocktail in a classic martini structure with a French twist.

Where can I find more French cocktail recipes like this?

You’ll find the Olivette featured in my roundup of 10 Easy French Cocktails , along with other elegant favorites like the Kir Royale and the refreshing St- Germain Spritz . Perfect for a summer soirée or a quiet evening on the terrace.

Olivette Cocktail Recipe (A French Martini with St-Germain)

Description

The Olivette Cocktail is a French Gin martini with the addition of St-Germain liqueur for a sweet, floral note that cuts the bite of the gin. If you wish that you loved a dirty gin martini but find them too strong, the Olivette is for you! A softer alternative to a classic dirty martini that looks exactly the same in the glass.

Ingredients

Scale

- ½ oz St-Germain elderflower liqueur

- 1 oz Noilly Prat dry vermouth

- 1 oz dry gin (Bombay Sapphire or Plymouth Gin work beautifully)

- Ice cubes

- 1 green olive for garnish

- Optional: a lemon twist or lemon peel for added citrus aroma

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Instructions

1. In a mixing glass, combine gin, dry vermouth, and St-Germain with a handful of ice cubes.

1. Stir gently, or shake in a cocktail shaker for a colder, slightly frothy finish.

1. Strain into a chilled martini glass.

1. Garnish with a green olive or, for a lighter citrus note, a lemon twist.

Notes

Le Chef’s Tip

Always chill your martini glass before pouring for a smooth, restaurant-quality sip.

Garnish with either a green olive, lemon peel, or rosemary sprig depending on the mood.

Want a touch more sweetness? Add a drop of simple syrup to round out the bitterness.

A dash of orange bitters can lend added depth and complexity.

This cocktail is also easy to adapt—especially if you're short on one ingredient or looking to impress at your next dinner party