Trader Joe’s Makes Happy Hour Easy with This $10 Espresso Martini Mix—and People Have Thoughts

Published on July 19, 2025

Espresso martinis made major waves in 2024, and they’ve been the star of many cocktail parties and happy hours ever since. Excitedly, Trader Joe’s is coming through for espresso martini fans this summer by bringing back its limited-edition espresso martini in a bottle—the perfect way to enjoy this java-powered cocktail without standing behind the bar all night. Here's everything to know about the product and what people are saying about it.

All About Trader Joe's Bottled Espresso Martini

Each bottle of the espresso martini mix has 20% ABV (alcohol by volume), so you don’t need to add anything extra to the drink, especially since those who have tried it say it’s pretty strong. A full bottle is just $9.99 and makes around four martinis.

The cocktail’s base is, of course, espresso mixed with vodka. Trader Joe’s also added some vanilla to the mix, making the drink taste sweeter and more complex. The grocery store brand recommends pairing it with a rich chocolate dessert—or maybe even a cheese board (if you’re not enjoying the cocktail on its own, that is). 

Customers are obsessed with the drink, with many already putting their own spins on the bottled cocktail. From using it in dessert recipes to adding flavored creamers (you could even try making a frozen espresso martini). Most reviewers can agree that it tastes absolutely delicious; it’s strong, sweet, and just plain tasty over ice. The only downside is that it’s not available in every U.S. state due to varying liquor laws.

How to Make the Perfect Drink Using Trader Joe's Bottled Espresso Martini

There are a few tips from commenters on viral social media posts to help you make the most out of your TJ’s Espresso Martini. The most important of all is to shake the cocktail in a shaker—and not gently, either. “Shake it HARD like 20+ times and [you] will see foam,” says one top commenter on a TikTok review of the drink by @claireejuliette. This is essential for getting that classic espresso martini crema, as the mix won’t foam when it’s not aerated.

If you prefer your cocktails on the sweeter side, some commenters swear by adding either a bit of whipped cream or a splash of Baileys. The mix itself has some notes of vanilla that add sweetness, but some reviewers say they prefer to make it even more decadent.

“It’s SO good, but dangerous,” reads another top comment on an in-store video of Trader Joe’s espresso martinis by @claireejuliette. “[Definitely] chill in the fridge,” the commenter recommends.

As long as you’re lucky enough to live in a state that allows Trader Joe’s to sell liquor, you’ll be able to find this iconic bottled cocktail gracing the aisles this month. There’s no telling exactly how long it’ll stick around, so you should probably stock up, just in case.