Up or on the rocks (which to choose)
Served up in a martini glass, this drink reads as an elegant dessert cocktail and stays silky. If you prefer a longer, slower sip, strain it over one large cube in a rocks glass; the dilution softens the cinnamon and stretches the añejo. Up is the signature presentation and the one that matches the SWOL-Tini name.
Best vanilla for a tequila martini
Vanilla liqueur (a real vanilla bean liqueur, not vanilla vodka) gives the roundest result and a little extra strength. Homemade vanilla syrup, made by steeping a split bean in equal parts sugar and water, keeps the cocktail sweeter and lets you control the sugar. Use pure vanilla extract only in tiny drops, since too much turns bitter. Whichever you choose, keep the añejo at 2 oz so the tequila stays in front.
Cinnamon rim and garnish
For a cinnamon-sugar rim, mix one part ground cinnamon with three parts fine sugar, wet the outer edge of the glass with a citrus wheel or a drop of vanilla syrup, and roll it in the blend. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for aroma and, for special occasions, a vanilla bean pod laid across the rim.
Mocktail and lighter variations
For a zero-proof version, swap the tequila for cold brew or a non-alcoholic aged-spirit alternative, keep the vanilla syrup and cinnamon, and add the cream for body. To make it more of a classic vanilla martini, add 0.5 oz more vanilla liqueur and skip the cinnamon. To batch for a party, multiply everything by your headcount, stir with a splash of water to mimic shake dilution, and keep chilled until serving.