those who are devotees of the dry martini will tell you anytime they are asked, and many times when they are not, how much they enjoy this singularly classic adult beverage. Far beyond the scope of this blog, Martini culture would take far too long to describe in its entirety. But those who enjoy juniper in gin, and the botanicals in dry vermouth in a wonderful icy cold concoction become convinced. Herein lies the problem. Martini culture, as enjoyable as it is, has been plagued for many years by the notion that there is one and only one perfect martini. In point of fact, nothing could be further from the truth. As I often tell people when asked about the right wine to serve with a certain meal, my response is that the best wine is the one you like. In much the same way, the best martini is the one you like. First, there is the shaking vs. stirring controversy. No controversy at all! You shake if you want a colder Martini that's more concentrated, and you stir if you w...