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The Real Story of the Pornstar Martini & How to Make It Properly

The Real Story of the Pornstar Martini & How to Make It Properly

A Taste of London Nightlife

A cocktail that’s as sophisticated as it is provocative, the Pornstar Martini has become a staple in bars around the world. But have you ever wondered about the story behind its notorious name? Let's pour a glass and explore the history of this modern classic, and show you how to create the definitive version with our own Scottish vanilla vodka.

The creator of this iconic drink was Douglas Ankrah, a name celebrated in the London bar scene. The inspiration for the Pornstar Martini, originally named the Maverick Martini, struck when Ankrah visited Mavericks Revue Bar, a gentlemen's club in Cape Town, South Africa. He wanted to design a drink that was pure indulgence—bold, sexy, and playful. While the name is undeniably attention-grabbing, the cocktail itself is a perfectly balanced and tasteful creation.

The drink quickly became a hit at his London bars, The Lab and Townhouse. Its blend of vanilla vodka, vibrant passionfruit, and a crisp Prosecco sidecar created a multi-layered experience that captivated cocktail lovers. The name was later changed to the Pornstar Martini, a nod to what Ankrah believed a pornstar would drink. It’s a name that has stuck, ensuring this cocktail remains a talking point.

Crafting the Perfect Pornstar Martini

To create a truly exceptional Pornstar Martini at home, the quality of your ingredients is key. Our award-winning Malt Barley Vodka, infused with real Madagascan vanilla, provides a smooth, clean base that complements the tropical fruit flavours.

Ingredients:

  • 50ml Tayport Distillery Madagascan Vanilla Vodka
  • 25ml Passionfruit Liqueur
  • 50ml Pineapple Juice
  • 10ml Fresh Lime Juice
  • A splash of Mango Purée (optional, for extra fruitiness)
  • A dash of Aquafaba or egg white (for a rich, frothy head)
  • A shot of chilled Prosecco

Method:

  1. Chill Your Glass: Begin by filling a coupe or martini glass with ice and water to chill it perfectly.
  2. Shake the Ingredients: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the Tayport Madagascan Vanilla Vodka, passionfruit liqueur, pineapple juice, lime juice, and a dash of mango purée and aquafaba if using.
  3. A Vigorous Shake: Secure the lid and shake with energy for about 15 seconds. This is crucial for creating the cocktail's signature frothy top.
  4. Strain and Settle: Discard the ice from your chilled glass. Double strain the contents of the shaker into the glass to ensure a silky-smooth texture.
  5. The Prosecco Shot: While the cocktail settles, pour a shot of chilled Prosecco into a separate shot glass.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the top of the martini with a creative swirl of mango purée or half a passionfruit. Serve immediately with the Prosecco on the side.

How to Enjoy Your Pornstar Martini

The Prosecco shot is an essential part of the experience. Traditionally, you should sip the Prosecco first to cleanse your palate, which prepares your taste buds for the rich and complex flavours of the martini.

However, there’s no wrong way to enjoy your drink. Some prefer to pour the Prosecco directly into the cocktail for a sparkling twist. The choice is yours.

Ready to create your own? Discover our Madagascan Vanilla Vodka and other craft spirits online at the Tayport Distillery shop.

Kecia McDougall