When you think Martini you often think Bond. James Bond. Shaken, not stirred.

And on World Gin Day there’s nothing better to celebrate gin than with a Martini.

The Collins Bar at the Hilton Adelaide has just launched their Shaken And Stirred Martini collection.

The team at The Collins Bar have played with flavours, textures, spirits and garnishes to bring us sophisticated yet playful concoctions.

I am generally a traditional Martini drinker which is why, I think, I enjoyed the ‘Smoking Scottsman’ so much; gin, vermouth, sprayed with peat scotch for a burnt smoky aroma.

Now, going out on a limb, the ‘Black Forest’ Martini; cherry liquer, Crème de cacao, brandy, double cream float garnished with chocolate flakes and diced cherries. This had quite a strong cherry flavour but oh so decadent with that cream, chocolate and cherry garnish!

One of my favourites was the ‘Rhubarb Bliss’; Madagascan vanilla infused Ketal One vodka, house made rhubarb syrup, Dolin Rouge vermouth, lemon juice, garnished with fairy floss. This was pretty pink, sweet and fun with the fairy floss attached to the side of the glass!

The ‘Green Tea Martini’; muddled fresh kiwi, Midori, Yuzu, green tea syrup and Madagascan vanilla Ketel One vodka. It wasn’t very sweet but refreshing for a warm summer day.

And finally ‘The Noble Experience’; Tanqueray 10 gin, Lillet vermouth, grapefruit bitters, with your choice of garnish (olives!). This is all about getting the person involved in the Martini experience and mixing the four parts.

The Shaken and Stirred Martini collection is available now through until August at the Collins Bar, Hilton Adelaide.

A perfect place to sit and look out over Victoria Square!

** I was an invited guest.