"Shaken? Stirred?" by Marti Ronemus

For our Faithful Readers who want to show off their class, style, flair and elegance at holiday time, we offer you this guidance. Serve the PERFECT martini and watch the smiles of approval. Some suggestions from winners of bartending competitions.

Eschew vodka. It's GIN, do you hear? GIN! GIN! Anything else is sacrilege. Don't even THINK of appletinis or chocotinis. Those are for amateurs and poseurs. Also, vermouth is a must, as it is the civilizing aspect of the drink. Don't forget to add some orange bitters for balance. Just a touch makes a real difference.

Next, contrary to what James Bond recommends, STIR, don't shake. Stirring creates a taut, cold surface without ice shards. Lastly, choose the perfect glass for presentation, and add a lemon peel rather than olives.

Now, before we imbibe this miracle of deliciousness, we need to earn it with some excellent bidding.