Last Word
Discover the Last Word, a prohibition-era classic cocktail renowned for its unique and potent blend of equal parts gin, Green Chartreuse, Maraschino Liqueur, and fresh lime juice. This perfectly balanced concoction offers a complex flavour profile – sharp, pungent, herbal, and citrusy all at once. Often considered a bartender's favorite, the Last Word is a sophisticated choice for those seeking a memorable and historically significant drink. Learn how to craft this iconic cocktail perfectly every time with our easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cl gin
- 2 cl green chartreuse
- 2 cl maraschino liqueur
- 2 cl lime juice
- 1 piece maraschino cherry
Accessories
- 1 shaker
- 1 strainer
- 1 coupe glass
Instructions
Chill a coupe glass by filling it with ice or placing it in the freezer.
Add the gin, Green Chartreuse, Maraschino Liqueur, and fresh lime juice to a shaker.
Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels very cold.
Discard the ice from the chilled coupe glass.
Double strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into the chilled coupe glass.
Garnish with a Maraschino cherry (optional).
Trivia
- What does a Last Word cocktail taste like?
The Last Word has a complex and unique flavour profile. It's simultaneously sharp, pungent, sweet, tart, and herbaceous. The gin provides a botanical base, Green Chartreuse adds intense herbal and slightly sweet notes, Maraschino Liqueur contributes a funky cherry sweetness, and lime juice brings a bright, balancing acidity. It's a bold and memorable taste experience.
- What is the history of the Last Word cocktail?
The Last Word originated just before Prohibition, likely created at the Detroit Athletic Club around 1915. It gained popularity but faded into obscurity after World War II. It experienced a significant resurgence in the early 2000s, rediscovered by bartender Murray Stenson in Seattle, and has since become a staple in craft cocktail bars worldwide.
- What are the four equal parts of a Last Word?
The classic Last Word recipe calls for four ingredients in precisely equal proportions: Gin, Green Chartreuse, Maraschino Liqueur, and freshly squeezed Lime Juice. This equal-parts ratio is key to its balanced complexity.
- Can I substitute Green Chartreuse in a Last Word?
Green Chartreuse has a unique flavour profile that's difficult to replicate exactly. While substitutions can be made, they will significantly alter the drink. Some potential substitutes include Yellow Chartreuse (milder, sweeter), Génépy, or other complex herbal liqueurs, but the result won't be a true Last Word.
- What type of gin is best for a Last Word?
A classic London Dry gin works exceptionally well in a Last Word, providing a solid botanical backbone that complements the other strong flavours. However, you can experiment with other gin styles. Avoid overly floral or heavily juniper-forward gins that might clash with the Chartreuse and Maraschino.
- Why is the Last Word cocktail served up?
The Last Word is traditionally served 'up' (chilled, without ice) in a coupe or martini glass. This presentation highlights the cocktail's clarity and intense flavours without dilution from melting ice, allowing the drinker to experience the carefully balanced ingredients as intended.