LAST WORD COCKTAIL RECIPE
The Last Word is a quintessential Prohibition-era cocktail that has been delighting taste buds for nearly a century. Known for its zesty, yet complex profile, this cocktail packs a refreshing punch. Once lost to the annals of time, it found its resurrection in the early 2000s and is known exclusively by this evocative name.
Ingredients
- 1 Ounce gin
- ¾ Ounce Green Chartreuse
- ¾ Ounce Maraschino Liqueur
- ¾ Ounce Lime Juice
- 1 Lime Twist (garnish)
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour in the Gin, Green Chartreuse, Maraschino Liqueur, and Lime Juice.
- Shake for 15-20 seconds, until well mixed.
- Strain the drink into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lime twist.
- Enjoy!
Tips For Making A Last Word
As always, it's important to use fresh lime juice for the best flavor. It's really worth it!
Chill your cocktail glass before serving to keep the drink colder, for longer. It's especially important for a drink like this, where it's not served with ice.
If you want a sweeter twist to the drink, try replacing the lime juice with grapefruit juice.
Last Word Ingredients
The Last Word is a blend of gin, green Chartreuse, Maraschino liqueur, and lime juice.
Gin: Provides a dry, herbal base. Use a quality gin with a clean, juniper-forward profile.
Green Chartreuse: Adds a complex herbal note. Its unique flavor is irreplaceable.
Maraschino liqueur: Gives a slight sweetness and cherry nuance. Luxardo Maraschino works well.
Lime juice: Offers a necessary acidic balance. Always use fresh lime juice for the best result.
Best Gin For A Last Word
For the Last Word, a dry gin, such as Tanqueray, with a bold juniper flavor works best. It complements the complex flavors of the Chartreuse and Maraschino, while standing up to the sour lime.
Last Word History
The Last Word originated in Detroit, at the Detroit Athletic Club, during the Prohibition era in the 1920s. It was forgotten for many years until it was revived in 2004 by Seattle bartender Murray Stenson. Today, the Last Word is a staple in many craft cocktail bars worldwide.
FAQ's
What Does The Last Word Taste Like?
The Last Word cocktail is a balanced blend of sweet, sour, and herbal flavors. The gin provides a dry, juniper-forward base, the Maraschino liqueur adds a hint of sweetness, the green Chartreuse imparts a unique herbal quality, and the lime juice ties everything together with its tart freshness.
Can I substitute the green Chartreuse in a Last Word?
Chartreuse has a unique herbal flavor that is difficult to replicate. Substitutions may change the character of the cocktail, but Yellow Chartreuse or Strega could be potential alternatives.
Is The Last Word A Strong Cocktail?
Yes, the Last Word is considered a strong cocktail due to the equal parts of alcohol. However, the complex flavors balance this strength. Please drink responsibly!