Tuxedo Recipe
Step into a world of sophisticated sips with the classic Tuxedo Cocktail! This isn't just any drink; it's a beautifully balanced, Spirit-Forward masterpiece that’s as elegant as its name suggests. Crafted around the smooth embrace of Old Tom Gin and the nuanced complexity of dry Vermouth, the Tuxedo offers a delightful journey for your palate. You'll discover intriguing hints of Maraschino Liqueur, a whisper of Absinthe's unique anise character, and a vibrant lift from orange bitters. It’s a Cocktail designed for those who appreciate depth and refined flavor, proving that true style never goes out of fashion.
The Perfect Tuxedo
This classic cocktail is particularly beloved for its unique blend of flavors and elegant presentation.
What Makes It Special
- Served Up
- Anise
- Spirit-Forward
- Gin
- Maraschino Liqueur
- Served in Cocktail Glass
- Vermouth
- Stirred
- Absinthe
- Bitters
- Cocktail
Ingredients (Serves 1)
- 3 cl dry Vermouth
- 1/2 barspoon Maraschino Liqueur
- 1/4 barspoon Absinthe
- 3 dashes orange bitters
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a mixing glass, combine 3 cl Old Tom Gin, 3 cl dry Vermouth, 1/2 barspoon Maraschino Liqueur, 1/4 barspoon Absinthe, and 3 dashes orange bitters.
- Add a generous amount of fresh ice to the mixing glass.
- Stir the ingredients thoroughly for about 20-30 seconds, allowing the mixture to chill and slightly dilute.
- Using a strainer, carefully strain the contents into a pre-chilled cocktail glass, ensuring no ice transfers.
The History Behind the Recipe
The Tuxedo Cocktail carries an air of classic sophistication, much like the formal wear it's named after. Its precise origins are somewhat shrouded in the elegant mists of late 19th and early 20th century cocktail culture, a time when intricate and Spirit-Forward drinks were the hallmark of discerning palates. It's widely speculated to have emerged from the grand hotel bars and exclusive gentlemen's clubs of New York, possibly even tied to the famed Tuxedo Park, a symbol of refined leisure. This cocktail, with its precise blend of Gin and Vermouth, was undoubtedly created for those who appreciated a drink of substance and poise, embodying the era's pursuit of style and taste.
Presentation and Visual Appeal
When perfectly prepared and served, the Tuxedo Cocktail is a vision of understated elegance. It gleams with a clear, inviting amber hue in a pristine, chilled cocktail glass, truly emphasizing its Spirit-Forward nature. There’s no ice in the glass, showcasing its smooth, Served Up presentation. The drink is beautifully crowned with a vibrant, deep red cherry, nestled gracefully within, and a meticulously twisted curl of bright yellow lemon zest draped artfully over the rim, offering a delightful aromatic contrast. It's a visually stunning drink that speaks to sophistication and precision.
Pro Tips and Variations
This exquisite Tuxedo Cocktail is always served straight up, meaning without ice in the glass, and should be thoroughly chilled. Make sure your cocktail glass is pre-chilled for the best experience – simply fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink, then discard the water before straining. The quality of your Old Tom Gin and dry Vermouth is key here; since this is a Spirit-Forward cocktail, their flavors truly shine. For an enhanced aromatic experience, express the oils from the lemon zest over the drink before dropping it in as a garnish. And why not try a beautiful Luxardo cherry for a touch of elevated elegance?
This cocktail embodies the essence of classic mixology – simple ingredients combined with expert technique to create something truly extraordinary.
