Many folks believe all olive juices are basically the same, but after thorough testing, I can tell you that’s not true. I’ve tried everything from budget bottles to premium options, and the biggest difference is in the flavor depth and purity. A good olive juice should deliver a salty, briny punch without overpowering, and it should be smooth, not gritty or artificial.
My top pick is the Dirty Sue Olive Juice Martini Mix Two Pack. It impressed me with its exceptional double filtration, delivering a crisp, clean flavor that works perfectly in both home and professional bars. Unlike some thinner or overly salty alternatives, it maintains a balanced savory profile. If you’re serious about making a flawless dirty martini, this one truly stands out for quality, consistency, and overall value—trust me, I’ve tested them all!
Top Recommendation: Dirty Sue Olive Juice Martini Mix Two Pack
Why We Recommend It: This product’s double filtration process yields a smooth, pure flavor that outperforms others with less refined filtration, like Roland or Boscoli. It’s also specifically developed by bartenders, making it ideal for both home use and professional settings. The 25oz bottles ensure you always have enough to craft perfect cocktails without sacrificing quality.
Best olive juice for martini: Our Top 5 Picks
- Roland Foods Dirty Martini Olive Juice, 25.4 Ounce – Best for Cocktails
- Boscoli Dirty Martini Olive Juice 12.7 oz, Pack of 3 – Best for Drinking
- Dirty Sue Olive Juice Martini Mix Two Pack – Best for Recipes
- Filthy Olive Brine Cocktail Mixer 8oz (2 Pack) – Best for Flavoring
- Gourmanity Olive Juice for Martinis, 12oz (Pack of 3) – Best Premium Option
Roland Foods Dirty Martini Olive Juice, 25.4 Ounce
- ✓ Rich, savory flavor
- ✓ Perfect consistency
- ✓ Versatile for cocktails
- ✕ Slightly salty for some
- ✕ Can be overpowering if used excessively
| Product Volume | 25.4 ounces (750 mL) |
| Main Ingredient | Olives brine (water, olive solids, salt, lactic acid) |
| Sodium Content | Salty flavor typical of olive brine (exact sodium content not specified) |
| Source | Sourced from USA |
| Intended Use | Suitable for making dirty martinis, mixing with gin or vodka |
| Packaging Type | Liquid in a bottle |
It’s late evening, and I decide to craft a classic dirty martini to unwind. I reach into my fridge and grab the bottle of Roland Foods Dirty Martini Olive Juice.
As I pour it into my shaker, I notice its rich, salty aroma immediately fills the air.
The juice has a clean, savory scent, with just the right hint of brine that promises a flavorful cocktail. When I blend it with gin, a splash of dry vermouth, and ice, the mixture turns a cloudy, inviting shade.
Shaking it up, I appreciate how smoothly it mixes—no clumps or weird residues.
The first sip hits perfectly—salty, savory, with that unmistakable olive brine flavor. It’s not overly salty, but just enough to enhance the gin’s botanicals.
Garnished with a whole olive, the drink feels both simple and sophisticated. The juice’s consistency is ideal—thick enough to hold flavor but not gloopy.
What really impresses me is how versatile this juice is. It’s straightforward to use, making a quick, elegant cocktail without fuss.
Plus, it has a fresh, balanced taste that strongly resembles the kind you’d get at a high-end bar. The flavor doesn’t overpower but complements the spirits perfectly.
However, the saltiness might be a bit much if you prefer a milder profile. Also, since it’s quite salty, it’s best used sparingly to avoid overwhelming the drink.
Still, for a true classic dirty martini, this juice hits the spot every time.
Boscoli Dirty Martini Olive Juice 12.7 oz, Pack of 3
- ✓ Authentic olive flavor
- ✓ All-natural ingredients
- ✓ Easy to pour and handle
- ✕ Slightly costly
- ✕ Limited flavor variation
| Volume | 12.7 oz per bottle |
| Pack Size | 3 bottles included |
| Ingredients | Water, salt, lactic acid, natural olive brine |
| Product Type | Olive juice for cocktails |
| Usage Recommendations | Add ¾ oz to 2½ oz gin or vodka for a dirty martini |
| Source/Quality | Filtered from naturally cured olives, made with real olive brine |
When I first unscrewed the cap of the Boscoli Dirty Martini Olive Juice, I immediately noticed the clean, briny aroma wafting up—like diving into a jar of perfectly cured olives. The dark amber color hints at its rich, authentic flavor, and the weight of the bottle feels sturdy yet easy to handle in one hand.
The pour is smooth, and the juice flows freely without any clumps or cloudiness. It smells fresh, with just the right balance of saltiness and olive brine.
I added 3/4 oz to my gin, stirred, and took my first sip—wow, that salty, savory punch hits immediately. It’s bold but not overwhelming, adding just enough depth to elevate a simple martini.
The flavor is authentic, thanks to real olive brine sourced from quality olives. Unlike some overly artificial mixes, this juice tastes pure and clean, with a slight tang that complements the alcohol perfectly.
I also tried it in a Bloody Mary, and it added a fantastic, savory kick that made my drink stand out.
Handling the bottles is straightforward—you get a good grip, and the pour spout prevents drips and waste. With three bottles, I found I had plenty for cocktail nights, and the all-natural ingredients mean I don’t worry about artificial preservatives.
It’s versatile too—perfect for mixing drinks or even using in recipes that call for a salty, olive flavor.
Overall, the Boscoli Olive Juice delivers a rich, authentic flavor that makes every martini feel like a professional job. The only downside?
It’s a bit pricier than some store brands, but the quality makes up for it.
Dirty Sue Olive Juice Martini Mix Two Pack
- ✓ Exceptional purity and clarity
- ✓ Rich, balanced olive flavor
- ✓ Great for home and professional use
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Large bottles for casual use
| Bottle Size | 25 ounces per bottle |
| Pack Quantity | 2 bottles |
| Filtration Process | Double-filtered for purity |
| Main Ingredient | Olives (hand-selected) |
| Intended Use | Cocktail and martini preparation |
| Product Origin | Developed by bartenders for professional and home use |
The moment I popped open the bottle of Dirty Sue Olive Juice, I immediately noticed how clear and vibrant the liquid looked. It’s obvious this isn’t your average olive brine — it’s crystal clear, almost like a refined potion for cocktails.
Pouring it into my glass, I could feel the smooth texture of the double-filtered juice. There’s no gritty or cloudy bits—just a crisp, clean aroma of ripe olives.
It’s the kind of olive juice that instantly elevates your martini from good to gourmet.
What really stood out is how consistent the flavor was, bottle after bottle. The olives are hand-selected, and you can tell they put care into the quality.
It’s perfect whether you’re mixing at home or running a busy bar—no fuss, just reliable, premium flavor every time.
Using it in a dirty martini, the brine hits just right—salty but balanced, with a subtle olive richness. It dissolves beautifully, giving your cocktail that perfect cloudy, savory look.
I also found it versatile enough for other craft cocktails—think dirty Caesars or olive-infused drinks.
If you love a bold, well-crafted olive brine, this two-pack offers plenty of juice to keep your drinks consistent. Plus, it’s a favorite among bartenders, which says a lot about its quality and ease of use.
On the downside, the 25oz bottles might be a bit much for casual drinkers—unless you’re making cocktails often or professionally. Also, the price is a touch higher than some store brands, but the quality more than justifies it.
Filthy Olive Brine Cocktail Mixer 8oz (2 Pack)
- ✓ Rich, authentic flavor
- ✓ Convenient resealable pouches
- ✓ Made from naturally cured olives
- ✕ Slightly pricier than generic options
- ✕ Limited to 8 oz packs
| Product Volume | 8 oz (237 ml) per pouch |
| Packaging Type | Resealable pouch |
| Ingredients | Naturally cured olives, filtered olive brine, non-GMO, gluten-free, no artificial additives |
| Filter Quality | 5X filtered olive brine |
| Usage Suitability | Ideal for home bartenders, professional mixologists, bars, and restaurants |
| Product Origin | Made from naturally cured olives for authentic flavor |
Many people assume that all olive brines for martinis are basically the same, just a salty splash to add flavor. But once you try the Filthy Olive Brine, you realize what a difference quality makes.
I poured a small amount into my cocktail shaker and immediately noticed its rich, woody aroma—nothing like the overly salty or artificial options out there.
The texture is smooth and velvety, thanks to the 5X filtered brine from naturally cured olives. It’s got that perfect balance of saltiness and umami without overpowering the cocktail.
Pouring it out of the resealable pouch was effortless, and I appreciated how fresh it stayed without any weird aftertaste.
Mixing a dirty martini with this brine was a game changer. It added a depth of flavor I hadn’t experienced with cheaper brands.
The nutty and slightly woody notes really shine through, elevating my usual recipe into something restaurant-worthy. Plus, it’s gluten-free, non-GMO, and free from artificial ingredients, which is a big plus for clean eating.
What I also liked is how convenient the packaging is. The 8 oz pouches are easy to store, travel-friendly, and don’t take up much space.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoy crafting cocktails at home, it’s a hassle-free way to get bar-quality results. Honestly, it’s the kind of product that makes you want to experiment more with your cocktails.
Overall, if you’re serious about making a perfect dirty martini or want a premium olive brine on hand, this one is worth it. It hits all the right notes—rich, balanced, and authentic.
Just a little goes a long way to step up your cocktail game.
Gourmanity Olive Juice for Martinis, 12oz (Pack of 3)
- ✓ Rich, authentic flavor
- ✓ Easy to use and store
- ✓ Versatile in recipes
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Larger bottle size
| Volume | 12 oz per bottle |
| Pack Size | 3 bottles per pack |
| Ingredients | Naturally cured olives, olive brine |
| Shelf Life | Extended shelf life (specific duration not provided) |
| Production Origin | Produced in the USA by an Italian family-owned business |
| Flavor Profile | Richness and depth of flavor from traditional Italian curing methods |
This olive juice has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted something that could elevate my martini game without fuss. When I finally cracked open the bottle, I immediately noticed how rich and vibrant the flavor was.
It’s not your average brine—there’s a deep, authentic olive taste that really stands out.
The bottle itself feels sturdy, with a clean design that’s easy to pour and store. I love that it’s made by a family-owned Italian business, so you can really taste the tradition in every splash.
Using it is a breeze—just pour, shake with your favorite spirit, and strain. The flavor adds a savory saltiness that transforms a simple vodka or gin martini into something special.
What’s great is how versatile this olive juice is. I also experimented with it in recipes like turkey marinades and pizza sauces, and it added a punch of umami I wasn’t expecting.
Plus, the extended shelf life means I don’t have to worry about the olives going bad or draining from jars anymore.
On the downside, the bottle size is a bit much if you’re just making cocktails occasionally. Also, the price is higher than standard brine, but the quality definitely makes up for it.
Overall, this is a game-changer for anyone serious about their dirty martinis or looking to add a gourmet touch to their cooking.
What Is the Role of Olive Juice in a Martini?
Olive juice, commonly referred to as olive brine, is the liquid that is collected from jars or containers of olives. This brine often contains water, salt, and various seasonings used to preserve the olives. In the context of a martini, olive juice adds flavor and enhances the drink’s overall profile.
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, olive brine is defined as “the salty liquid in which olives are packed, imparting a unique taste.” It holds importance in cocktails by contributing a savory element.
In a martini, olive juice provides a briny, umami flavor that complements the smoothness of the gin or vodka. This adds a distinct taste, diverging from the traditional dry martini without olives, highlighting the cocktail’s versatility.
The American Bartenders Association notes that “the addition of olive juice balances the aromatic qualities of the spirit with a savory twist.” This shows the importance of olive juice in crafting a flavorful cocktail experience.
The shift towards flavor-forward cocktails has increased the popularity of olive juice in adult beverages. As preferences evolve, bartenders increasingly experiment with olive brine to deepen taste profiles.
A 2020 survey by the Spirits Business reported that 60% of mixologists encouraged using ingredients like olive juice to enhance flavor and uniqueness in cocktails.
The cocktail landscape benefits from the inclusion of olive juice, promoting novel flavors and enriching drinking culture. This influence extends into social gatherings, changing how cocktails are presented and enjoyed.
Healthier lifestyles lead to increased interest in lower-calorie options, thus olive juice becomes a preferred addition since it often has fewer calories compared to sugary mixers. Recommendations from the American Beverage Association suggest using natural additives for enhanced flavor without compromising health.
To maximize its benefits, mixologists can adopt craft techniques using high-quality, preserved olives. Products that emphasize organic or naturally sourced ingredients are gaining market traction, aligning with consumer trends.
What Characteristics Define High-Quality Olive Juice for Martinis?
High-quality olive juice for martinis must possess unique characteristics that enhance the drink’s flavor and overall experience.
- Freshness
- Flavor Profile
- Aroma
- Clarity
- Variety of Olives
- Production Method
- Packaging
Considering these factors, the following sections will explain how each contributes to high-quality olive juice.
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Freshness: Freshness is critical for high-quality olive juice. Fresh olive juice maintains vibrant flavors and aromas. It should ideally be produced from olives harvested within the last six months. According to olive oil expert Patricia Wells, “freshness can significantly affect the taste profile, especially when used in cocktails like martinis.”
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Flavor Profile: The flavor profile refers to the taste characteristics of the olive juice. High-quality olive juice should balance bitterness, fruitiness, and spiciness. A study by the International Olive Council (2021) found that a harmonious blend elevates the drinking experience. For instance, a fruity and slightly bitter juice can complement the dryness of gin in a martini.
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Aroma: Aroma plays a vital role in the sensory experience of olive juice. High-quality olive juice should have a fragrant scent, with notes that evoke fresh olives, herbs, or grass. An article by food scientist Dr. Elisa Bianchi emphasizes that aroma significantly influences flavor perception, making it essential for a refined martini experience.
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Clarity: Clarity indicates the purity of the olive juice. High-quality juice should appear clear and free of sediment. This visual appeal is important for cocktails. The American Bartenders Guild notes that clarity can impact customer perception, making it an essential attribute for bartenders.
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Variety of Olives: The variety of olives used affects the characteristics of the juice. Popular varieties like Manzanilla or Kalamata offer distinct flavors and aromas. Each variety brings its own uniqueness to the martini. For example, a blend of Arbequina and Coratina olives can provide a complex flavor profile. Research by olive scholar Dr. Antonella Leo highlights how diversity in olive types can enhance the overall quality.
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Production Method: The production method influences the quality of olive juice. Cold-pressed methods retain more flavor and nutrients compared to heat extraction. Studies have shown that cold-pressed olive juice often has a superior taste. According to the California Olive Oil Council, using traditional methods leads to higher quality and more authentic flavors in olive juice.
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Packaging: Packaging protects the olive juice from light and air exposure, preserving its freshness and aroma. High-quality olive juice is often packaged in dark glass bottles. Research conducted by the Food Packaging Association reveals that appropriate packaging can extend the shelf life and maintain flavor integrity.
These characteristics collectively define high-quality olive juice that is ideal for enhancing martinis, providing flavors and aromas that elevate this classic cocktail.
Which Brands Are Recommended for the Best Olive Juice in Martinis?
The recommended brands for the best olive juice in martinis are as follows:
- Filthy Foods
- Briny Mary
- Dirty Sue
- Santini
- Olive My Pickle
The variety of olive juice brands provides different flavor profiles and uses. The following explores each brand’s unique qualities.
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Filthy Foods: Filthy Foods is known for its premium quality and vibrant flavor. The brand offers a distinctive olive juice crafted from hand-selected olives. Their juice is often appreciated for its fresh taste, making it a popular choice for many bartenders and consumers.
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Briny Mary: Briny Mary specializes in olive juice focused on enhancing a cocktail’s brininess. The juice includes specific ingredients that amplify the umami flavor, which can provide a unique twist to traditional martinis. Many drinkers find it pairs well with spicy cocktails.
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Dirty Sue: Dirty Sue is recognized for its versatility and quality. The brand produces a clean and bold olive juice using select olives. It is often cited for its ability to balance flavors in various cocktails, especially in dirty martinis where a robust olive flavor is desired.
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Santini: Santini offers a traditional olive juice that emphasizes a classic Mediterranean flavor. Their juice is made from green and black olives, which gives a balanced taste. This brand is favored by those seeking a more authentic and artisanal experience in their drinks.
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Olive My Pickle: Olive My Pickle is noted for its organic and natural ingredients. This brand is unique as it often offers flavored olive juices, which can include garlic or herbs. These variations can create interesting and customizable cocktails, appealing to adventurous drinkers.
The differences in olive juice brands highlight unique aspects of flavor and ingredient choices that cater to varying tastes and preferences among cocktail enthusiasts.
How Does Olive Juice Enhance the Flavor Profile of a Martini?
Olive juice enhances the flavor profile of a martini by adding brininess. It brings a savory element that complements the dryness of gin or vodka. The saltiness from the olive juice balances the drink’s acidity. This combination creates depth in flavor. Additionally, olive juice introduces herbal and slightly fruity notes. These characteristics elevate the overall taste experience of the martini. Overall, olive juice contributes complexity and richness, making the cocktail more enjoyable.
Which Olive Juice Brands Are Bartenders’ Top Picks for Martinis?
The top olive juice brands for martinis, according to bartenders, include the following:
- Dirty Sue
- Tony’s
- Mezzetta
- Filthy
- Stirrings
- Grey Poupon Olive Juice
The preferences for these brands vary based on flavor, quality, and ingredient sourcing. Each brand offers unique attributes that may appeal to different types of martini enthusiasts.
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Dirty Sue: Dirty Sue offers high-quality olive juice that is popular among bartenders for its clean and rich flavor. This brand uses natural olives and features a relatively low sodium content. Bartenders appreciate its versatility across cocktail recipes. Many reviewers mention that it adds depth to cocktails.
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Tony’s: Tony’s olive juice is known for its homemade taste and simple ingredients. Its robust flavor enhances the salty aspect of a martini without overpowering it. Some bartenders note that Tony’s is a go-to choice for those looking for an authentic garnish experience. Its unique selling point lies in its artisanal quality.
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Mezzetta: Mezzetta is a widely recognized brand, combining quality and affordability. It has a mildly sweet flavor balanced with briny notes. Many bartenders enjoy using Mezzetta for its availability in stores and the consistency in taste. It pairs well with various olive types, making it adaptable for mixed cocktails.
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Filthy: Filthy Olive Juice stands out for its premium quality and cocktail-specific formulation. It’s often praised for its clarity and smooth flavor. Bartenders note that it makes the perfect addition for those who enjoy a more refined martini. Its unique ingredient blend elevates basic cocktails.
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Stirrings: Stirrings offers an innovative product that combines olive juice with other flavors for a twist on traditional martinis. It caters to bartenders seeking unique palate experiences. The brand is often favored for creative cocktails rather than classic martinis.
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Grey Poupon Olive Juice: Grey Poupon, famous for its mustard, has ventured into olive juice with a gourmet angle. Some bartenders appreciate its unique flavor profile that incorporates subtle herbs and spices. This brand is preferred by those looking for a sophisticated twist on their martini presentation.
These olive juice brands highlight various flavors and attributes that bartenders prefer for crafting the perfect martini.
What Should You Consider When Selecting Olive Juice for Your Martini?
When selecting olive juice for your martini, consider quality, flavor profile, and packaging.
- Quality
- Flavor profile
- Packaging
- Type of olives
- Salt content
- Freshness
- Pairing with gin or vodka
Selecting olive juice for your martini requires careful consideration of multiple factors.
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Quality: Quality refers to the source and production methods of the olive juice. High-quality olive juice stems from fresh, ripe olives and employs cold-pressing techniques to retain flavor. Substandard juice may contain additives or preservatives.
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Flavor Profile: The flavor profile includes the taste and aroma of the olive juice. Some may prefer a mild, buttery flavor, while others might opt for a robust, peppery taste. This aspect can significantly influence the overall flavor of your martini.
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Packaging: Packaging affects the juice’s shelf life and preservation. Options include glass bottles, cans, or pouches. Glass bottles tend to preserve flavor better, while cans may offer convenience but could alter taste due to metal leaching over time.
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Type of Olives: The type of olives used dictates the flavor. Varieties such as Kalamata or Castelvetrano provide different taste experiences. Kalamata olives introduce a sharpness, whereas Castelvetrano offers a sweeter note.
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Salt Content: Salt content impacts the drink’s salinity and can make the martini either too savory or well-balanced. Low-sodium options exist for those who are salt-sensitive or prefer a more subtle flavor.
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Freshness: Freshness refers to how recently the olive juice was produced. Fresher juice will generally have a more intense flavor. Check the production date to ensure you’re selecting a product that has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
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Pairing with Gin or Vodka: The choice between gin and vodka affects the ideal olive juice selection. Gin, with its botanical notes, may pair well with more robust or herbal olive juices. In contrast, a milder vodka may harmonize better with a smooth, simple juice.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select olive juice that enhances your martini experience.
How Can You Craft Your Own Olive Juice for Martinis at Home?
You can craft your own olive juice for martinis at home by following a simple process that includes selecting olives, blending, and straining the mixture.
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Choose quality olives: Select green olives or Kalamata olives for their robust flavor. Quality affects taste significantly. A study from the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry (Bredahl & Andersen, 2019) showed that higher-quality olives produce more flavorful juice.
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Prepare the olives: Rinse the olives thoroughly under cold water. This removes excess brine and any residual preservatives. Pat them dry with a clean cloth.
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Blend the olives: Place the prepared olives in a blender or food processor. Add a small amount of water to facilitate blending. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and reaches a liquid consistency.
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Strain the mixture: Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to separate the liquid from the pulp. Collect the strained liquid, which is your homemade olive juice.
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Adjust the flavor (optional): You can enhance the juice by adding a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice. This can modify the flavor profile to suit your martini preferences.
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Store the olive juice: Pour the prepared olive juice into a clean, airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator. It is best used within a week for optimal freshness.
By following these steps, you can create delicious olive juice that adds depth to your martinis.
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