No one really knows who invented the martini, although most agree it’s most likely an American concoction. American writers—including H.L Mencken, E.B. White and John O’Hara—played a crucial role in creating the mystique and aura surrounding the martini.

There are as many variations for martinis as there are ice cream flavors. I’m partial to the traditional vodka martini (hold the vermouth, please), but I have to admit the pomegranate martini is pretty tasty. Take a sip and you’ll agree.

1 oz vodka (or citrus vodka, if you have it)

1/2 oz Cointreau orange liqueur

3 oz pomegranate juice

chopped ice

1/4 teaspoon lemon juice, for garnish

lemon slice, for garnish

sugar, for garnish

Wet the rim of the cocktail glass with the lemon juice. Place the sugar in a saucer and dip the rim of the cocktail glass into the saucer to produce a ring of sugar. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Add ice so that the shaker is about a third full (ice plus ingredients). Shake for twenty seconds. Strain into a cocktail glass. Squeeze a couple of drops from the lemon slice into the glass, then garnish the side of the cocktail glass with the slice of lemon.

Cheers!