The Spy Bar at Raffles London at The OWO has launched Martini No. 52, a cocktail created in tribute to the late drinks writer Forest Collins.
In partnership with Boatyard Distillery and planned in consultation with Collins’ friends and family, the cocktail aims to honour her legacy, with the drinks community invited to visit the bar and raise a glass in memory.
As part of the tribute, Spy Bar will offer a tiny Martini No. 52, with their compliments, to members of the trade upon arrival.
The name Martini No. 52 is a nod to Collins' publication and book 52 Martinis, and “the spirit of generosity she extended, week after week, across 52 weeks a year”.
While the spec (4 parts London Dry gin, 1 part dry vermouth, 3 dashes of orange bitters and garnished with a preserved lemon rind) is based on the former World's 50 Best Bars Academy Chair's favourite Martini recipe.
Bar manager Sotiris Konomi said: “It’s a simple yet meaningful toast to say thank you, to keep Forest’s spirit alive in our glassware, and to ensure her name remains part of the conversations she helped shape.”