FIVE OF A KIND

Shaken or stirred, no cocktail is complete without a carefully considered garnish.

Cocktail garnishes.

MARY VALLEY FOOD CO DRIED ORANGE

The vibrant jewel tones of a dried citrus wheel will brighten any drink and add a professional flourish. The dehydration process intensifies the flavour and ensures the delicate slices will last for months in the pantry. Try adding one to your next G&T or negroni. $14.90 for 70gm twoprovidores.com.au

LUXARDO MARASCHINO CHERRIES

Dark and glossy, Luxardo maraschino cherries are a far cry from the neon red plastic of other brands. The Italian company has been preserving the stonefruit for more than a century, soaking the fruit in a rich mascara syrup that leaves them plump and bursting with flavour. $20.95 for 400gm danmurphys.com.au

DELICIAS GUINDILLAS

These piquant little peppers will fire up any drink but are especially good in a Bloody Mary. Pickled in white wine vinegar, these small Spanish chillies bring equal parts texture and tang to a classic cocktail. The experts at Sydney’s Maybe Sammy suggest using the pickle juice to dirty-up a Martini. $6.95 for 280gm essentialingredient.com.au

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT CORNICHONS

Small but mighty, these tarragon and mustard infused cornichons pack a big flavour punch, thanks to a vinegar infusion that balances the sharp acid tang with a subtle sweetness. This jar contains a few surprise pickled onions, too – great for a Gibson Martini. $7.55 for 350gm essentialingredient.com.au

THE OLIVE BRANCH GREEN OLIVES

Whether shaken or stirred, classic or dirty, the perfect Martini calls for the perfect olive, and these juicy green gems are just the ticket. Preserved in brine, these plump, whole olives are firm yet meaty with a salty, savoury flavour that lingers on the palette. We’ll take three, please. $6.29 for 335gm harrisfarm.com.au