A vodka martini is called dirty when it has olive brine added to it. The brine gives the drink a salty, savory flavor and a slightly cloudy look.

Quick Scoop

  • Base spirit: vodka.
  • “Dirty” ingredient: olive brine, sometimes called olive juice.
  • Taste: saltier and more savory than a classic martini.
  • “Extra dirty”: more brine than usual, for a stronger olive flavor.

Simple Rule

If it’s just vodka and vermouth, it’s a standard martini. If olive brine is added, it becomes a dirty vodka martini.

Easy Example

A bartender might mix vodka, a little dry vermouth, and a splash of olive brine, then garnish with olives. That’s the classic dirty style.

TL;DR: Olive brine makes a vodka martini dirty.