Last word Recipe
Imagine a perfectly balanced symphony of flavors, where every note plays a crucial role. That's exactly what you'll find in the Last-Word - Cocktail, a true classic that delivers a delightful punch of vibrant citrus notes beautifully intertwined with complex herbal undertones and a hint of sweet cherry. This iconic cocktail masterfully blends the botanical richness of Gin with the unique herbal depth of Green Chartreuse, the bright tang of fresh lime juice, and the subtly sweet, almond-like essence of Maraschino Liqueur. It’s a sophisticated, Sour yet incredibly harmonious drink, perfect for those who appreciate a truly unique spirit-forward experience.

The Perfect Last word
This classic cocktail is particularly beloved for its unique blend of flavors and elegant presentation.
What Makes It Special
- Cocktail
- Citrus
- Sour
- Served Up
- Maraschino Liqueur
- Shaken
- Served in Cocktail Glass
- Gin
- Chartreuse
Ingredients (Serves 1)
- 22.5ml lime juice
- 22.5ml green Chartreuse
- 22.5ml maraschino liqueur
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine gin, fresh lime juice, green Chartreuse, and maraschino liqueur in a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker generously with ice.
- Shake vigorously until well-chilled, usually for about 15-20 seconds.
- Double strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
The History Behind the Recipe
The Last Word Cocktail is said to have originated in the roaring 1920s at the Detroit Athletic Club, amidst the Prohibition era. It quickly became a well-loved secret among patrons, a testament to its intriguing blend of spirits and liqueurs. While its exact creator remains a bit of a mystery, its survival through decades of cocktail trends speaks volumes about its timeless appeal and perfect equilibrium. It’s a genuine pre-Prohibition gem that has seen a delightful resurgence in modern craft cocktail bars, proving that some classics truly never go out of style.
Presentation and Visual Appeal
When impeccably prepared, the Last-Word - Cocktail presents a mesmerizing pale green hue, courtesy of the Chartreuse, sparkling invitingly in a perfectly chilled Cocktail Glass. Served Up, its surface is smooth and pristine, reflecting the light without the obstruction of ice. The absence of ice allows the beautiful color to shine through, and for an elegant finish, a delicate lime wheel resting on the rim or a single, dark Maraschino Liqueur cherry nestled at the bottom provides a sophisticated contrast, hinting at the complex flavors within this Shaken masterpiece.
Pro Tips and Variations
This exquisite Cocktail is meant to be Served Up, meaning it's poured without ice into a chilled glass for a pristine, undiluted experience. The key to a perfect Last Word is using fresh Citrus lime juice – never bottled! For an extra touch of elegance, consider a delicate lime wheel or a brandied cherry as a garnish. While it's a potent Gin-based Spirit, its balance makes it surprisingly approachable. Don't be shy with that shake – a well-chilled drink truly elevates the experience. If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of Gin to see how it subtly shifts the flavor profile.
This cocktail embodies the essence of classic mixology – simple ingredients combined with expert technique to create something truly extraordinary.





