Martinis are considered by some to be the smooth, suave choice of the drinking set. The traditional gin, vermouth and olive combination, while adored by martini purists, is hardly the only choice available. Over the years, adventurous mixologists have put their own spin on this classic beverage, taking the goal of the martini from standard style to individual preference.

The classic version of the drink is comprised of gin, dry and sweet vermouth, and a cocktail olive or two. Nearly as popular, though looked down upon by purists, is the vodka martini, identical except for the liquor. A Gibson, probably the first shake-up of the drink, differs only by serving a cocktail onion, rather than an olive.

If you are looking for a celestial sipper, try a Stardust. This glittering cocktail uses Goldschlager, a cinnamon-flavored liqueur speckled with flecks of real, edible gold that sparkle and float in your glass. For a classic Stardust, combine four parts vodka with one part of crème de cacao, shaking over ice in a cocktail shaker. After pouring the mix into a glass, slowly and gently add the sparkling Goldschlager, so the gold flakes slowly descend through the drink.

Chocolate lovers are not denied their favorite ingredient in a chocolate martini. A classic version of this drink is a combination of vodka, crème de cacao and half and half, but variations are endless. Try an orange-chocotini with citrus-flavored Grand Marnier added. A holiday version uses a shot of peppermint schnapps and crushed mint candy for a chocolate candy-cane martini. For a snowy white chocolate version, use clear crème de cacao and vanilla vodka, sprinkling the drink with flaked coconut.

It is now possible, mixologists report, to get your caffeine from a mixed drink. The espressotini is a popular version with an iced shot of espresso, vanilla vodka and coffee-flavored liqueur such as Kahlua. Though most people will not want to trade their morning latte for an espressotini, it can serve as an excellent post-work pick-me-up.

Citrus ingredients can be a refreshing addition, perfect as a cooler on hot days. In an April Rain martini, combine lime juice with vodka and vermouth, and garnish the glass with a lime wedge or spiral-cut lime peel. Muddle a peeled kiwi with vodka and sugar syrup, shake over ice and pour for a kiwitini.

Truly decadent versions are rich and flavorful, and can serve as a swanky dessert. For a caramel appletini, drizzle the glass with caramel sauce before pouring in apple vodka and butterscotch schnapps. To cut the sweetness, garnish with a tart apple slice. The perfect fall drink is the pumpkintini, a decadent combination of pumpkin spice drink syrup, vanilla vodka, crème de cacao with a dash of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick garnish. For a tropical drink, try the delicate lotus blossom, a concoction of lychee fruit, sake and vodka.

Martinis have become expressions of personal choice and style. The endless variations allow for years of sampling to find or design your own personal version. Whether you long to be James Bond or simply enjoy a particular flavor combination, the versatile martini may have a drink to suit you, whatever your style.