But with the rise in popularity of neutral-flavored vodka in the 1980s, the vodka martini has morphed into an endless parade of full-flavored cocktails (one lounge in Chicago offers more than 100 varieties of vodka martini). Here are four special vodka martini recipes, plus a classic vodka martini recipe for the less adventurous, courtesy of Grey Goose vodka. These sophisticated drinks will generate excitement at any gathering.

• L’Orange Black Orchid Martini
• L’Orange Floridian Martini
• Maharaja’s Martini
• Black Truffle Martini (for those in the chips—it requires eight black truffles!)
• Classic Vodka Martini

Survive the summer heat with a Maharaja’s Martini, made with guava juice and fresh mint leaves. You need to be a maharaja to afford the Black Truffle Martini.

• What makes gin so special? Read about the ingredients that go into making it, and why each brand of gin has such a distinctive flavor.
• Want more ideas for summer cocktails? Find them in THE NIBBLE’s Cocktails & Spirits Section.