Tuxedo in a coupe with a cocktail cherry and lemon zest

Cocktail

Tuxedo

How to make a Tuxedo - the elegant classic cocktail of gin, dry vermouth, maraschino and absinthe. A refined relative of the Martini from the golden cocktail era.

5 minPrep time
mediumDifficulty
CoupeGlass
1Serving(s)

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The Tuxedo is an elegant cocktail classic from the late 19th century and is considered a refined relative of the Martini. Gin and dry vermouth form the base, elevated with a hint of maraschino and absinthe into a complex, aromatic aperitif. A drink for lovers of upscale bar culture.

Instructions

  1. Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
  2. Add gin, dry vermouth, maraschino, orange bitters and absinthe.
  3. Stir cold for about 20 seconds until the drink is well chilled.
  4. Strain into a pre-chilled coupe.
  5. Garnish with a cocktail cherry and a lemon zest.

Garnish: Cocktail cherry and lemon zest

Pro tip: Rinse the glass only briefly with absinthe instead of stirring it in directly - that way the anise aroma stays subtle and does not overpower the fine gin notes.

Frequently asked questions

How does the Tuxedo differ from the Martini?

The Tuxedo is based on a ratio of gin and dry vermouth in equal parts, refined with maraschino and absinthe, which makes it more aromatic than a classic Martini.

Where does the Tuxedo come from?

It originated at the end of the 19th century at the Tuxedo Club in the US state of New York and is one of the classic aperitif cocktails.

Which gin works best?

A classic London Dry gin with a pronounced juniper note forms the ideal base for the fine accompanying aromas.

Ingredients

  • Gin4.5 cl
  • Dry vermouth (Vermouth Dry)4.5 cl
  • Maraschino liqueur1 bar spoon
  • Orange bitters2 dashes
  • Absinthe1 dash
  • Ice cubesas needed