London Town
A sophisticated, spirit-forward classic that pays homage to the city's gin heritage. This refined cocktail balances the botanical complexity of dry gin with the distinct, nutty sweetness of Maraschino liqueur, finished with aromatic orange bitters.
What it tastes like
This drink leads with a forward aroma of juniper and medicinal cherry. The palate is dominated by the nutty, floral sweetness of the maraschino liqueur balanced against dry gin botanicals. It has a silky, viscous mouthfeel and a lingering finish of orange peel and almond.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Gin1.5 oz
- Maraschino Liqueur0.5 oz
- Orange Bitters2 dashes
Preparation
- 1
Fill a mixing glass half-full with ice cubes.
- 2
Add the gin, Maraschino liqueur, and orange bitters to the mixing glass.
- 3
Stir well for approximately 20-30 seconds until the drink is thoroughly chilled.
- 4
Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
Substitutions
- Maraschino LiqueurAmaretto — Amaretto increases the almond sweetness while removing the floral and medicinal cherry notes.
- GinVodka — Using vodka creates a neutral base that highlights the orange and cherry flavors without botanical interference.
- Orange BittersAngostura Bitters — Angostura adds deep spice notes like cinnamon and clove instead of bright citrus.
- GinGenever — Genever adds a malty, grainy backbone that makes the cocktail heavier and more savory.
Variations
Holland Town
Use Genever instead of London Dry gin and add a lemon twist to emphasize the malty, cereal character.
Bitter London
Replace one dash of orange bitters with Peychaud's bitters for an anise-forward profile and a pale pink hue.