Last Word
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Last Word
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.9 / 5
The Last Word is a prohibition-era cocktail that has experienced a revival in modern mixology. A balanced mix of tart and botanical flavors, this cocktail combines fresh lime juice with the complex herbal notes of Green Chartreuse and the sweet, nutty profile of Maraschino liqueur, all underpinned by the crispness of dry gin. The ingredients are equal parts, contributing to its harmony and making it a classic example of the precision required in cocktail crafting. Traditionally served in a cocktail glass, the Last Word is a vibrant, zesty drink with a captivating green hue, embodying both historical charm and contemporary sophistication.
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Base ingredient
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Green Chartreuse
Calories
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159 calories
Alcohol content
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27.5% | 3.3 units *

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Last Word is a captivating mix of sharp lime juice, herbal notes from Green Chartreuse, and the deep maraschino cherry liqueur, all balanced by the clean taste of gin. It offers a burst of flavors that are both refreshing and boldly assertive, a true testament to classic cocktail craft.

Method
How to make a Last Word

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
In a shaker with ice add all the ingredients
Shake well and strain into in a chilled cocktail glass and serve
~ Green Chartreuse works the best, Yellow Chartreuse doesn't go as well with the lime. If you're too heavy with the maraschino liqueur the cocktail will have too rich of a taste. Err on the side of using less of it, but it is a necessary ingredient. ~

Power tips
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Ensure all ingredients are of equal parts to achieve the quintessential balance of flavors that makes the Last Word so unique.
Use a high-quality maraschino liqueur like Luxardo for its superior flavor profile, which incorporates a perfect balance of sweet and bitter.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Shake  ·  Strain  · 

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Comments

Sandra S avatar

just tried this gem, and it's a real treat for the palate. the balance is impeccable, with all the ingredients playing their part perfectly. my tip: shake it really well for a frothy, light texture, and chill your glass beforehand to enhance the experience. delightful!

Jen Brown avatar

wasn't sure I'd enjoy this given the herbal notes, but I was pleasantly surprised by how well the ingredients balanced each other out. The mix of lime and Chartreuse created a fresh and zesty kick, while the Maraschino added just enough sweetness. Worth a try for sure!

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the history and origin of the Last Word cocktail?

The Last Word is a Prohibition-era cocktail that was first served at the Detroit Athletic Club in the early 1920s. It fell out of favor for many decades before being rediscovered and popularized in the early 2000s by the craft cocktail movement. Its equal parts recipe and striking green color from the Chartreuse make it a memorable classic.

Preparation techniques icon

Is it important to shake the Last Word cocktail, and if so, why?

Yes, it is important to shake the Last Word cocktail. Shaking not only chills the beverage but also properly integrates the dense, herbal flavors of the Green Chartreuse with the citrus acidity of the lime juice and the other ingredients, creating a balanced and refreshing drink.

Ingredient specifics icon

What role does Green Chartreuse play in the flavor profile of the Last Word?

Green Chartreuse is a key ingredient in the Last Word, offering a complex herbal and slightly sweet flavor that is balanced by the sourness of the lime juice and the botanicals of the dry gin. Its unique taste and high alcohol content significantly contribute to the overall flavor profile and potency of the cocktail.

Serving suggestions icon

What is the ideal way to serve the Last Word?

The ideal way to serve the Last Word is in a chilled cocktail glass. Serve it straight up without ice to preserve the intended taste and temperature. Garnishing with a maraschino cherry or a lime twist can add a decorative touch and a slight aromatic enhancement.

Customization ideas icon

Can the Last Word be customized for a sweeter taste?

Yes, the Last Word can be customized for a sweeter taste by adjusting the ratio of Maraschino liqueur slightly upwards or by adding a small amount of simple syrup. However, care should be taken to maintain the balance between the sour, sweet, and herbal components of the cocktail.

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