Pornstar Royale
A modern classic that captured the zeitgeist of the early 21st-century cocktail renaissance, combining tropical passion fruit with vanilla sweetness, elevated by theatrical sparkling wine service.
18%
ABV
245
Calories
Coupe
Glass
Flavor Journey
History & Heritage
“The Pornstar Martini (often called Pornstar Royale) was invented in 2002 by Douglas Ankrah at his Knightsbridge bar, Townhouse. Inspired by a visit to a Cape Town gentlemen's club, Ankrah created what he called a drink that was "bold, sexy and playful." Originally named the Maverick Martini, it was renamed to capture its confident, indulgent character. The cocktail became an instant success and by 2018 was officially declared the UK's most popular cocktail. Its provocative name has generated controversy, leading some establishments to rename it "Passion Star Martini," but the original remains widely recognized as a modern classic of the cocktail renaissance.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
2 oz
0.5 oz
0.5 oz
0.3 oz
2 oz
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Place large coupe or martini glass in freezer for at least 15 minutes
Slice fresh passion fruit in half, reserve one half for garnish
Combine vanilla vodka, passion fruit liqueur, passion fruit purée, lime juice, and vanilla syrup in shaker
Fill shaker three-quarters with high-quality ice cubes
Shake hard for 12-15 seconds until shaker is intensely cold
Double strain through Hawthorne and fine-mesh strainer into chilled glass
Float reserved passion fruit half on foam, pulp-side up
Serve chilled Prosecco in separate shot glass alongside cocktail
Glassware
Large chilled coupe glass with separate shot glass for Prosecco
Garnish
Fresh passion fruit half, pulp-side up
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use quality vanilla vodka like Absolut Vanilia or Ketel One
Unsweetened passion fruit purée (Boiron or Funkin Pro) is essential
Shake vigorously to create signature frothy texture
Prosecco should be sipped alternately as palate cleanser
Double strain to remove seeds and create smooth texture
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Pornstar Royale.
Other Variations
Sweeter Profile
Increase vanilla syrup for more dessert-like character.
Changes
Tart Version
Increase lime juice for more acidic, balanced profile.
Changes
Passion Fruit Martini
Alternative name avoiding controversial terminology, same recipe.
Changes
Spicy Version
Add muddled jalapeño or chili tincture for heat contrast.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Frozen Pornstar Martini
A modern, blended interpretation of the classic Pornstar Martini, with a vibrant, tropical flavor profile of passion fruit and vanilla.
Pineapple Pornstar Martini
A tropical twist on the modern classic Pornstar Martini, featuring bright pineapple juice that enhances the vanilla and passion fruit flavors with refreshing complexity.
Pornstar Martini
Vanilla vodka and passion fruit served with a side of champagne for a modern showstopper.