TuxedoCocktail recipe
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The Tuxedo is a gin-and-vermouth cocktail that sits in the Martini family, dressed up with a few aromatic accents for extra polish. You’ll find it’s often treated as a more perfumed, slightly sweeter cousin to the Dry Martini, built around the same crisp backbone but with classic pre-dinner sensibilities. While its exact origin story is hazy, it belongs to that early 20th-century wave of spirit-forward, barroom “up” drinks where small dashes of liqueur and bitters are used to tailor the finish rather than change the whole direction.
This is a cocktail-glass sipper that suits you when you want something elegant, bracing, and unapologetically grown-up. It’s ideal as an aperitif before dinner, especially if you enjoy Martini-style drinks but want more complexity than a straight gin-and-vermouth build. Serve it when the occasion calls for sharp tailoring—date nights, celebrations, or any moment you want your first drink to feel like a statement.
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Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Gin and white vermouth lead with crisp botanicals and soft winey sweetness, while a dash of maraschino cherry liqueur adds a faint cherry-almond gloss, orange bitters bring bright peel spice, and absinthe threads in a cool anise perfume. It works because the absinthe and bitters sharpen the vermouth’s roundness and keep the maraschino from feeling candy-like, ideal for martini drinkers who want extra aromatics and a touch more sweetness.
Method
How to make a Tuxedo
- Absinthe Dash, Gin 45 ml, Maraschino cherry liqueur Dash, White vermouth 45 ml, Orange bitters 3 dashes
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- Stir all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice
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- Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a cocktail cherry and lemon zest twist before serving
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Find out more- Rinse the glass with absinthe before combining the ingredients. This will give a subtle absinthe aroma without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Use high-quality, freshly made vermouth. Its freshness and herbal qualities will dramatically impact the overall taste of the cocktail.
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FAQ's
What is the history or origin of the Tuxedo cocktail?
The Tuxedo is a classic cocktail that dates back to the late 19th century. It is believed to have originated at the Tuxedo Club in New York, an exclusive club founded in 1886. The cocktail is part of the Martinez family of drinks, which are precursors to the modern martini. Its name and popularity are closely associated with the elegant and sophisticated attire of the same name, fitting the cocktail's refined taste and appearance.
How does the absinthe affect the flavor of the Tuxedo cocktail?
The dash of absinthe in the Tuxedo cocktail adds a complex layer of flavor. Absinthe brings a slight herbal and aniseed note that complements the botanicals in the gin and the sweetness of the maraschino cherry liqueur and vermouth. Even in small amounts, absinthe can add depth and complexity, making the cocktail more intriguing and flavorful.
Can the Tuxedo cocktail be considered a variation of the Martini?
Yes, the Tuxedo cocktail can be considered a variation of the Martini. It shares a similar base of gin and vermouth, but distinguishes itself with the addition of orange bitters, maraschino cherry liqueur, and a dash of absinthe. These ingredients give the Tuxedo a distinctive taste and complexity that sets it apart from a standard Martini, highlighting the cocktail's unique character and history.
What is the significance of stirring rather than shaking the Tuxedo cocktail?
Stirring the Tuxedo cocktail, as opposed to shaking, is significant for maintaining its clarity and texture. Stirring gently combines the ingredients without introducing air bubbles, ensuring the cocktail remains clear and the flavors are well blended. This method preserves the silky texture of the cocktail, which is key to enjoying its refined and intricate flavors to the fullest.
What does the alcohol content of 28% indicate about the Tuxedo cocktail?
The alcohol content of 28% in the Tuxedo cocktail indicates that it is a relatively strong drink. With its base of gin and complemented by various liqueurs, the cocktail offers a balanced yet potent experience. The alcohol content reflects the cocktail's character as a sophisticated and potent concoction, suitable for sipping and savoring slowly, making it ideal for pre-dinner or sophisticated social occasions.
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