Moscvatini

I didn't know that this Martini variation even existed. As far as Martini's go, it's not overly extravagant, just sweet and herbal. But I have to say that if you haven't had a black olive with kummel, you are missing out. It is the sweet honey and herbal flavors with the dark scent of black olive and vodka. Don't pass up the chance to make this especially dank and very Russian cocktail.

• 1 1/2 oz. vodka (Smirnoff #57 used)
• 1 oz. kummel (homemade used)
• black olive

Combine liquid ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with the black olive. 

Black Devil

I love the look of this cocktail. It's clear and creepy and totally sinister. The Black Devil is the first of the Devil cocktails that can actually get you drunk quickly, though the portions are somewhat diminished. It's stronger even than the Red Devil, which has an ounce of orange juice and is more wet and bitter. This imp is dry and the black olive does nothing for the flavor--it's all for the look. If you want to make it more interesting, use a kalamata olive for a drink that's a little more gourmet and a little less presentation.

• 2 oz. white rum
• 1/2 oz. dry vermouth
• black olive

Stir all ingredients except olive in a mixing glass with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with the olive.