The Last Word Cocktail

Gin
Author: Yash Lakhan
A cocktail in a coupe glass garnished with a twist of lime and a dark stick, set on a brown surface with shadow patterns.

The Last Word cocktail is a compelling and flawlessly balanced traditional drink known for its intriguing complexity, achieved through a simple yet innovative equal-parts mix. The overall flavour profile is incredibly nuanced while being approachable, with no specific ingredient overwhelming the other. Usually served with no garnish to enable its vivid colour and unique aroma to speak for themselves, a simple lime wheel or a single maraschino cherry can be used as a visual accent.

What you’ll need

Ingredients

Serves:
1
  • Tanqueray No 10 gin (or any other gin of choice)
    10ml
  • Herbal liqueur
    10ml
  • Maraschino liqueur
    10ml
  • Fresh lime juice
    10ml
  • Ice cubes
    For shaking

Method

  1. Step 1

    Thoroughly chill a coupe or martini cocktail glass by placing it in the freezer.

  2. Step 2

    In a cocktail shaker, blend the gin, herbal and maraschino liqueurs with lime juice.

  3. Step 3

    Toss in a few ice cubes into the shaker, secure the top and shake for 15-20 seconds until the surface is frosted.

  4. Step 4

    Strain the mixture into the chilled glass, garnish with a lime wedge or cherry (optional) before serving.

Tips & Suggestions

  • Pour the measured maraschino liqueur into a tiny, clean spoon or jigger and allow it to settle for 30 seconds at room temperature before adding to temporarily enable the subtle cherry notes to ‘bloom’.

  • Instead of shaking vigorously, use a controlled, somewhat less rapid motion for 20-25 seconds to promote complete chilling and dilution while minimising over-aeration, resulting in a silkier texture.

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FAQs

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