There are rumours that this was once known as the sweet martini, before finding fame as “gin and it”, the “it” being short for Italian vermouth. Yes, roses are a cliche on Valentine’s Day, but they taste blooming marvellous in this cocktail. I have upped the vermouth content from the classic, which means you can fit in another one or two without feeling too squiffy. Serves two (obviously).
100ml sweet vermouth (try Punt e Mes)
50ml London dry gin (try Sipsmith)
8 dried rose buds
Combine everything in a small jug or mixing glass, add ice, stir, then strain into two small chilled glasses.
• Jack Adair Bevan is a drinks writer, a founder of The Ethicurean in Bristol and co-creator of The Collector vermouth
