The Martini might be the most well known cocktail in the world. Its origins, however, are not so indisputable. Some claim that it originated in New York in 1912, while others say it was named for Martini and Rossi brand vermouth. The most likely explanation is that it evolved out of the drink known as a Martinez - a mix of gin, vermouth, maraschino cherry juice and bitters. Some famous martini drinkers include Winston Churchill, Alfred Hitchcock, Ernest Hemingway and the fictional James Bond. In the 1970's, the popularity of the martini waned, but with the Martini Renaissance of the 1990's, many varieties of the classic cocktail emerged.

Enter Knoxville's Sapphire. They have taken the Martini to the next level with their Sapphire Martini. Made with classic Bombay Sapphire gin or mouveau Ikon vodka, its coup de grace is a 2.25-carat blue sapphire in the bottom of each glass. If you happen to be in the Knoxville area and are looking for a sophisticated drink and a gorgeous gemstone to go with it, Sapphire is the place for you!