Pomegranate Martini

by | Jan 7, 2026 | Classic Cocktails, Cocktail Recipes, Popular Cocktails, Seasonal Cocktails

pomegranate cocktial in martini glass garnished with three pomegranates on a skewer

The Pomegranate Martini is a bright, tart cocktail made with vodka, pomegranate juice, and orange liqueur. Crisp, refreshing, and beautifully ruby-red, it is a popular choice for celebrations, date nights, and Valentine’s Day cocktails.

If you are looking for what a pomegranate martini is or how to make one that is balanced and not overly sweet, this recipe uses classic ratios with bartender tips to highlight the natural tartness of pomegranate juice.

Jump straight to ingredients, instructions, tips, or FAQs.

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  • Prep time: 5 minutes
  • Cook time: 0 minutes
  • Total time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 cocktail
  • Glassware: Martini or coupe glass
  • Flavor profile: Tart, crisp, lightly sweet
Things to know: A pomegranate martini is similar to a cosmopolitan, but swaps cranberry juice for pomegranate juice, creating a deeper color and a brighter tart finish.

Ingredients for a Pomegranate Martini

  • 1 1/2 oz vodka
  • 2 oz pomegranate juice
  • 1/2 oz orange liqueur (Cointreau or Triple Sec)
  • 1/4 oz fresh lime juice (optional, for extra brightness)
  • Ice
  • Pomegranate arils or lime twist (garnish)

How to Make a Pomegranate Martini

  1. Chill the glass. Place a martini or coupe glass in the freezer or refrigerator while you prepare the drink.
  2. Add ingredients. Add vodka, pomegranate juice, orange liqueur, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
  3. Shake well. Shake vigorously for 12 to 15 seconds until the shaker is very cold.
  4. Strain and serve. Strain into the chilled glass and garnish with pomegranate arils or a lime twist.

Bartender Tips for the Best Pomegranate Martini

  • Use unsweetened juice. 100% pomegranate juice gives the cleanest flavor.
  • Balance the tartness. Add lime juice only if your juice is very sweet.
  • Shake hard. Proper dilution smooths the acidity.
  • Serve ice-cold. A well-chilled glass makes a noticeable difference.

Pomegranate Martini Variations

  • Pomegranate Cosmo: Add a splash of cranberry juice and increase orange liqueur slightly.
  • Pomegranate Gin Martini: Swap vodka for gin for a more botanical version.
  • Sparkling Pomegranate Martini: Top with prosecco or Champagne for a lighter, bubbly drink.
  • Big-Batch Pomegranate Martini: Multiply ingredients and chill in advance, then shake individual servings with ice.

Pomegranate Martini FAQs

What is a pomegranate martini?

A pomegranate martini is a cocktail made with vodka, pomegranate juice, and orange liqueur, shaken with ice and served chilled in a martini glass.

What alcohol is best for a pomegranate martini?

Vodka is traditionally used because it allows the tart pomegranate flavor to stand out without overpowering the drink.

Is a pomegranate martini sweet or tart?

A pomegranate martini is lightly sweet but mostly tart, with a crisp, refreshing finish.

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