The origins of most drinks are shrouded in myth and mystery, and the martini is no exception. Barnaby Conrad III, author of The Martini, cites numerous stories about the birth of this drink. One tale claims a San Francisco bartender named "Professor" Jerry Thomas invented the cocktail in the early 1900s but dubbed it "the Martinez."

According to English legend, the cocktail's name came from the Martini & Henry rifle used by the British Army in the late 1800s. And an Italian bartender at New York's Knickerbocker Hotel said he was mixing the drink prior to World War I.

• Even though we may never know the martini's true derivation, we do know there are some basic tips to follow in mixing the perfect drink.
• Think quality, not quantity. Better ingredients make a better martini, but buy small bottles in case you don't like the drink.
• Invest in the hardware: a shot glass, a shaker (glass or stainless steel is best), two martini glasses (also known as cocktail glasses). Keep garnishes on hand as well: Lemons, limes, olives and oranges are the usual.
• Keep everything as cold as possible, even the glasses and shaker. And make sure you shake or stir with clean, fresh ice.
• If you're considering a martini bar at your next holiday party, be prepared to serve more than gin, vodka and dry vermouth.
• Check out our new recipe twists on an old-school favorite (sidebar)!