The Elizabeth Taylor Martini, most famously known as the Chocolate Martini, is a luxurious cocktail steeped in Hollywood history and dripping with indulgent flavours. Beloved by silver-screen icons and cocktail connoisseurs alike, this rich, chocolate-infused creation has evolved from a playful on-set experiment to a world-class drink served in bars and lounges across the globe.
The Origins – A Cocktail Born on a Movie Set
The story of the Elizabeth Taylor Martini begins in 1955, during the filming of the epic drama Giant. Co-stars Elizabeth Taylor and Rock Hudson were known for their off-screen camaraderie, sharing laughter, mischief, and a penchant for trying new things. One evening after shooting wrapped, the pair decided to mix vodka with chocolate syrup, curious to see if they could blend the elegance of a martini with the irresistible sweetness of chocolate.
The result was surprisingly delicious — smooth, rich, and indulgent — and quickly became a favourite for Taylor. As the drink gained popularity, chocolate liqueur replaced syrup for a deeper flavour, and bartenders across Hollywood began serving variations of the now-iconic Chocolate Martini.
The Classic Elizabeth Taylor Martini Recipe
The original-style Elizabeth Taylor Martini is simple yet indulgent, relying on just a few premium ingredients to create a balance of richness and elegance.
Classic Ingredients:
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2 oz vodka (high-quality, chilled for a smooth finish)
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1 oz chocolate liqueur (such as crème de cacao or Kahlúa)
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1 tsp chocolate syrup
Method:
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Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
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Add vodka, chocolate liqueur, and chocolate syrup.
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Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
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Strain into a martini glass (optionally rimmed with chocolate or cocoa powder).
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Garnish with chocolate shavings, a dusting of cocoa, or even a chocolate-covered strawberry for extra glamour.
This simple recipe captures the decadence and sophistication of Old Hollywood, making it a timeless indulgence for any occasion.
The Modern Decadent Version
While the classic version is pure in its elegance, modern bartenders often add a touch of cream or half-and-half for a dessert-like richness.
Popular Modern Ingredients:
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2 oz vodka
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1 oz chocolate liqueur (crème de cacao, Kahlúa, or Godiva)
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1 oz cream or half-and-half
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1 tsp chocolate syrup
Preparation:
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Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
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Shake until the mixture is frothy and ice-cold.
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Strain into a chilled martini glass.
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Garnish with chocolate curls, a drizzle of syrup, or a dusting of cocoa powder.
This variation delivers a velvety mouthfeel and pairs beautifully with dessert courses — think tiramisu, chocolate mousse, or a slice of rich cheesecake.
Presentation – The Glamour is in the Details
The Elizabeth Taylor Martini is as much about visual appeal as it is about flavour. Presentation plays a key role in elevating the cocktail to show-stopping status:
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Rim the glass with chocolate syrup, then dip in cocoa powder or finely crushed chocolate biscuits.
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Serve with a long chocolate stick as a stirrer.
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Float edible gold leaf on top for a luxurious finish.
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Use a vintage-style martini glass to evoke the charm of 1950s Hollywood.
A beautifully presented Elizabeth Taylor Martini is not just a drink — it’s an experience, evoking glamour, sophistication, and indulgence.
A Philanthropic Revival
In recent years, the Elizabeth Taylor Martini has seen a resurgence in upscale bars, thanks in part to The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. Venues such as Tryst Puerto Vallarta and The Abbey in West Hollywood have brought the cocktail back into the spotlight, donating $1 from each sale to the foundation.
This initiative not only celebrates Taylor’s passion for exquisite cocktails but also honours her tireless activism, blending indulgence with philanthropy.
Pairing Suggestions for the Elizabeth Taylor Martini
The chocolate-rich profile of this martini makes it an ideal companion for sweet treats and even certain savoury dishes.
Perfect Pairings:
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Chocolate truffles or pralines
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Fresh strawberries dipped in dark chocolate
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Cheesecake with a chocolate swirl
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Salted caramel desserts for a sweet-salty contrast
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Nut-based desserts, such as hazelnut torte or almond biscotti
For a more adventurous pairing, try serving the martini alongside spicy Mexican mole, where the chocolate elements of the sauce complement the drink’s profile.
Tips for Making the Perfect Elizabeth Taylor Martini at Home
To capture the Hollywood magic of this cocktail in your own kitchen:
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Chill your glassware in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving.
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Use premium vodka — its purity enhances the smoothness.
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Select a high-quality chocolate liqueur for depth of flavour.
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Don’t skimp on presentation — the garnish is part of the charm.
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Adjust sweetness to taste; for a darker, more sophisticated flavour, use bittersweet chocolate syrup.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your martini delivers both elegance and indulgence with every sip.
Why the Elizabeth Taylor Martini Remains Timeless
More than just a drink, the Elizabeth Taylor Martini embodies Hollywood nostalgia, culinary creativity, and modern-day relevance. Born from playful experimentation between two cinema legends, it has stood the test of time, evolving to suit contemporary tastes while retaining its original allure.
Its unique combination of luxury, flavour, and heritage ensures that it remains a beloved fixture on cocktail menus worldwide, proving that some creations — like Elizabeth Taylor herself — are simply timeless.
