The French Martini is a vodka-based cocktail. However, contrary to its name, the French Martini doesn’t actually have a long history in France. The drink was first created in the late 1980s by a bartender named Keith McNally in New York City, New York.

McNally created the French Martini as a twist on the classic Martini, which typically consists of gin and vermouth. He replaced the gin with vodka and added Chambord, a raspberry liqueur, then topped it with splash of pineapple and a subtle hint of lemon to give the drink a sweet and fruity twist.

It then appeared on the drink menu at McNally's Balthazar in SoHo Manhattan, New York City in 1996. 

The French Martini is not considered to be a true martini, but is one of many drinks that incorporate the term martini into their names. The Black Raspberry Liqueur (Chambord) that goes into the drink is what allows it to be called “French.” Chambord has been produced in the Loire Valley or France since 1685.

Although the French Martini is a very young cocktail, as far as cocktails go, its sweet and fruity approach to a martini has made it a very popular cocktail, that continues to grow its popularity around the world.

Base spirit
Vodka
Black Raspberry Chambord

Served
In a martini glass, chilled, without ice

Standard garnish
Squeeze oil from lemon peel onto the drink
Garnished with three Raspberries

Ingredients
45 ml Vodka
15 ml Raspberry Liqueur
15 ml fresh Pineapple Juice

Preparation
Pour all ingredients into cocktail shaker, shake well with ice, strain into chilled cocktail glass.

This Cocktail is most commonly served before dinner.