The Authority on the Proper Martini

Saving the World from Mediocre Martinis

Because a martini starts with gin. Explore the Gindex, discover exceptional bottles, and experience the martini as it was meant to be.

Explore the Gindex View Experiences

Our Story

From 2013 to 2019, we hosted the World’s Best Martini Challenge in London — an annual competition that brought together outstanding gin distillers, leading bartenders, and some of the most respected names in the trade.

Over seven years, we judged hundreds of martinis, worked with iconic bars including The Connaught, Duke’s, The Gibson, and Artesian, and developed a clear point of view on what makes a martini exceptional.

World’s Best Martini exists to bring that experience forward: through the Gindex, curated events, and guidance for those who want the martini done properly.

100+
Gins Evaluated
7
Years of Challenge
3
Champions Crowned

The Gindex

A curated index of gins that stand up in a proper martini. Selected, tested, and refined — because not every gin belongs in the glass.

Explore the bottles that define structure, balance, and character — from classic London dry to modern standouts.

Campfire Gin 2019 Winner

Puddingstone Distillery, Hertfordshire

Smoky, complex, with warming spices. Best served bone dry with orange peel flowers soaked in sweet vermouth.

Arbikie AK's Gin 2018 Winner

Arbikie Distillery, Scotland

Field-to-bottle Scottish gin with honey and wheat. Exceptional with sea herbs vermouth and a whisper of smoke.

Daffy's Gin 2017 Winner

Strathmashie Distillery, Scotland

Bright and citrusy with Lebanese mint. The classic serve with dry vermouth and orange bitters is perfection.

Tanqueray No. Ten 2016 Benchmark

Cameron Bridge, Scotland

The classic against which all martini gins are measured. Fresh citrus, chamomile, and impeccable balance.

Bertha's Revenge Crowd Favourite

Ballyvolane, Ireland

Made from whey alcohol with wild botanicals. Remarkably smooth — perfect for an extra-dry serve with green olives.

Pothecary Gin Finalist

Christchurch, Dorset

Lavender, mulberry, and honey create an aromatic profile. Pairs beautifully with bergamot and oloroso sherry.

Explore Full Gindex

Are You a Gin Producer?

Think your gin deserves a place in The Gindex? We're always looking for exceptional gins that shine in a martini. Submit your gin for our expert evaluation.

Submit Your Gin

Martini Experiences

Private tastings, curated events, and guided experiences built around the proper martini.

Designed for those who care about what’s in the glass — and how it’s made.

Virtual Masterclass

A guided session on the structure of a proper martini — from gin selection to dilution, temperature, and balance.

Enquire

Private Tasting

A curated tasting experience exploring gins from the Gindex, with a focus on how each performs in a martini.

Enquire

Martini Consultation

Bespoke guidance for bars, venues, or private hosts looking to refine or elevate their martini offering.

Enquire

Public Events

Join us at selected partner venues for curated evenings dedicated to the proper martini.

Next Event

World's Best Martini X Unwined

Milford, NH

July 2026
Learn More
If you order a martini in a bar, and are not asked 'How would you like that?', then leave immediately.
01

Stirred, Never Shaken

Shaking introduces tiny ice shards and clouds the drink. 18 stirs provides maximum cooling with minimum dilution.

02

The Right Gin

Any gin can make a decent martini. Few make a great one. The botanical profile must shine through.

03

Sympathetic Garnish

The secret isn't olive vs. twist — it's selecting a garnish that complements your specific gin.

04

Dilution Matters

The ratio of water to spirit makes the difference between a sipper and a knockout.

05

The Vermouth Question

Dry, wet, or perfect? The amount is personal, but its presence is essential. Even a whisper transforms gin into a martini.

06

Temperature Is Everything

A warm martini is a tragedy. Freeze your glass, chill your gin, and serve the moment it's ready. Hesitation is dilution.

Let's Talk Martinis

Whether you're planning an event, seeking consultation, or want to discuss gin selection — we'd love to hear from you.

We operate across the UK and US Northeast, with virtual options worldwide.

Email: info@wbmchallenge.com
UK: London & Scotland
USA: New Hampshire & Northeast