Tuxedo Cocktail
A sophisticated pre-Prohibition era classic that serves as an elegant variation on the Martini. This cocktail balances equal parts gin and dry vermouth, accented with the nuttiness of maraschino liqueur, the herbal notes of anise, and a hint of orange bitters for a complex, aromatic finish.
What it tastes like
The nose leads with juniper and lemon oil, followed by a faint scent of licorice. On the palate, the drink is bone-dry and herbal with distinct nutty notes from the maraschino. The texture is light and silky, finishing with a lingering bitterness and a subtle anise prickle.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Gin1.5 oz
- Dry Vermouth1.5 oz
- Maraschino Liqueur0.25 tsp
- Anis Liqueur0.25 tsp
- Orange Bitters2 dashes
- Maraschino Cherry1 whole
Preparation
- 1
Fill a mixing glass with fresh ice cubes.
- 2
Add the Gin, Dry Vermouth, Maraschino liqueur, Anis liqueur, and Orange bitters to the mixing glass.
- 3
Stir gently for approximately 30 seconds until the drink is well-chilled.
- 4
Strain the mixture into a chilled Martini glass.
- 5
Garnish with a maraschino cherry dropped into the glass.
- 6
Express the oils from a twist of lemon zest over the drink and place it on the rim or in the glass.
Substitutions
- GinOld Tom Gin — This provides a richer mouthfeel and a subtle botanical sweetness compared to London Dry gin.
- Anis LiqueurAbsinthe — Using absinthe increases the herbal intensity and adds a more pronounced medicinal bite.
- Dry VermouthBlanc Vermouth — This adds more floral weight and a noticeably higher sugar content to the mid-palate.
- Orange BittersGrapefruit Bitters — This swap introduces a sharper, more pithy citrus character that cuts through the anise.
Variations
Tuxedo No. 2
Substitute Blanc vermouth for the dry vermouth and use an absinthe rinse to intensify the herbal aromatics.
The Evening Dress
Replace the gin with vodka for a neutral base that allows the subtle cherry and anise flavors to dominate.