The origins of the Last Word Cocktail can be traced back to the Detroit Athletic Club during the Prohibition era of the 1920s. This classic cocktail, despite its historical roots, faded into obscurity for several decades before experiencing a resurgence.
Creation at the Detroit Athletic Club:
The Last Word is believed to have been created at the Detroit Athletic Club in the early 20th century. The cocktail is often credited to Frank Fogarty, a vaudevillian and member of the club, who is said to have introduced the recipe to the establishment.
The Last Word gained popularity within the Detroit cocktail scene but remained relatively unknown on a broader scale until its rediscovery in the 21st century.
Revival in the Craft Cocktail Movement:
The Last Word experienced a revival in the early 2000s, thanks in part to the efforts of modern mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts dedicated to rediscovering classic recipes.
Its resurgence was propelled by its distinctive flavor profile, which combines the herbal notes of Chartreuse with the citrusy kick of lime juice, creating a well-balanced and intriguing cocktail.
Last Word Cocktail Ingredients:
- Gin (22.5 ml / 0.75 ounce): The base spirit for the Last Word, gin contributes its botanical complexity.
- Maraschino Liqueur (22.5 ml / 0.75 ounce): Maraschino liqueur adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the cocktail.
- Green Chartreuse (22.5 ml / 0.75 ounce): The herbal and complex flavors of Green Chartreuse are a defining element of the Last Word.
- Fresh Lime Juice (22.5 ml / 0.75 ounce): Freshly squeezed lime juice contributes the essential citrusy brightness.
Last Word Cocktail Recipe:
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Ingredients
Before you start mixing, ensure you have the necessary tools: a shaker, a jigger for precise measurements, and a fine strainer. Also, have your gin, Maraschino liqueur, Green Chartreuse, and fresh lime juice ready.
Step 2: Measure and Add Gin
- In a shaker, measure 22.5 ml (0.75 ounce) of your chosen gin. Pour the gin into the shaker, preparing the foundation for the Last Word’s complex flavor profile.
Step 3: Add Maraschino Liqueur
- Measure 22.5 ml (0.75 ounce) of Maraschino liqueur and add it to the shaker. Maraschino liqueur imparts a delicate sweetness and a hint of nuttiness to the cocktail.
Step 4: Introduce Green Chartreuse
- Measure 22.5 ml (0.75 ounce) of Green Chartreuse, the herbal powerhouse of the Last Word. Pour it into the shaker, allowing its unique flavors to mingle with the other ingredients.
Step 5: Squeeze Fresh Lime Juice
- Measure 22.5 ml (0.75 ounce) of fresh lime juice. The acidity of the lime juice provides a vibrant and citrusy balance to the Last Word. Add it to the shaker, completing the quartet of ingredients.
Step 6: Shake Vigorously with Ice
- Add ice to the shaker and shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. The goal is to achieve proper dilution and chilling, ensuring a well-balanced and refreshing cocktail.
Step 7: Fine Strain into a Chilled Glass
- Fine strain the shaken mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass. This step eliminates ice chips, resulting in a smooth and visually appealing Last Word Cocktail.
Step 8: Garnish (Optional)
- Optionally, garnish the Last Word with a twist of lime peel. Express the oils from the twist by giving it a gentle twist over the surface of the cocktail, then drop it into the glass.
Step 9: Enjoy the Complexity
With the Last Word expertly crafted and presented, it’s time to savor its complex and harmonious flavors. The interplay of herbal, citrus, and floral notes makes this cocktail a delightful experience for the discerning palate.
The Last Word Cocktail – Stands The Test Of Time
The Last Word is often hailed as a near-perfect cocktail, but like many classics, it has inspired inventive variations from both professional bartenders and home enthusiasts. One notable spinoff is the Paper Plane, crafted by NYC bartender Sam Ross in 2008, which swaps gin for bourbon.
Other variations stay true to the original recipe but experiment with different base spirits. Mezcal adds an earthy, savory twist, while rhum agricole creates a fresh and grassy flavor profile. Interestingly, the first versions reportedly used bathtub gin from the Detroit Athletic Club, so even London Dry or Old Tom gins can be considered departures from the original.
Whether you prefer to stick with the classic recipe or explore new territory, one thing remains certain: The Last Word is guaranteed to impress, leaving you pleasantly speechless after every sip.
Cheers to the art of making the best cocktails and the enduring allure of the Last Word, a classic gin cocktail!
