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The Last Word

Cotswold Cocktail School - The Last Word Cocktail Recipe

ABV 28% / 3 Alcoholic Units

 

Primary Spirit: Gin

 

A Brief History of The Last Word

 

Originating during the Prohibition era, The Last Word is believed to have been concocted at the Detroit Athletic Club. The cocktail gained popularity in the 1920s and '30s but eventually fell into obscurity. It experienced a remarkable resurgence in the early 2000s, thanks to the cocktail renaissance and the efforts of modern mixologists rediscovering and celebrating classic recipes.

The Last Word's name is said to symbolise the equal parts of its ingredients, emphasising the balance that defines this cocktail. However, with a slight tweak and increasing the proportion Gin is our preference. 

Taste and Flavour Profile

The Last Word is revered for its balanced and intriguing flavor profile:

  • Herbal Elegance: Chartreuse (green), a key ingredient, imparts herbal and floral notes, creating a complex and aromatic foundation.
  • Citrus Zest: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a bright and zesty kick, enhancing the cocktail's vibrancy.
  • Gin's Botanicals: The botanicals in a London Dry Gin contribute a nuanced backdrop, offering layers of complexity and depth.
  • Maraschino Magic: Maraschino liqueur brings a subtle sweetness and cherry undertones, rounding out the cocktail with finesse.

The result is a cocktail that seamlessly intertwines herbal, citrusy, and botanical notes, making The Last Word a true masterpiece in a glass.

Food Pairings

The Last Word's intricate flavors find delightful companionship with a variety of culinary offerings:

  • Oysters: The herbal and citrus notes of The Last Word complement the brininess of fresh oysters, creating a perfect union.
  • Herb-Infused Dishes: Pair with dishes featuring fresh herbs, such as basil or cilantro, for a harmonious herbal interplay.
  • Lemon Desserts: The cocktail's citrusy profile pairs wonderfully with lemon-infused desserts, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Bar Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Hawthorne strainer
  • Fine sieve 
  • Nick & Nora glass
  • Jigger

Ingredients

  • 30ml London Dry Gin
  • 20ml Green Chartreuse 
  • 20ml Luxardo Maraschino liqueur
  • 20ml Freshly squeezed lime juice
  • Garnish: Lime twist or maraschino cherry

Method

  • Add ice and all ingredients into the shaker and shake until cooled 
  • Double strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass
  • Garnish with either a lime twist or maraschino cherry

What's the best Gin for The Last Word?

The best gin for The Last Word cocktail is a matter of personal preference, as different gins bring unique botanical profiles and flavours to the mix. However, a gin with a balanced and versatile botanical profile tends to work well in this cocktail. Here are some gin options that are commonly recommended for The Last Word:

  • Plymouth Gin: Known for its smooth and slightly sweet character, Plymouth Gin complements the herbal and citrus elements of The Last Word without overpowering the other ingredients.
  • Tanqueray London Dry Gin: A classic London Dry Gin, Tanqueray offers a well-balanced blend of botanicals, including juniper, coriander, and citrus. It provides a crisp and refreshing quality to The Last Word.
  • Beefeater Gin: With a bold juniper backbone and a mix of citrus and herbal notes, Beefeater Gin adds complexity to the cocktail, allowing each ingredient to shine.
  • Bombay Sapphire: Infused with a variety of botanicals, Bombay Sapphire contributes a floral and aromatic quality to The Last Word, creating a sophisticated and layered flavour profile.
  • Hendrick's Gin: Hendrick's, known for its infusion of rose and cucumber, introduces a unique twist to The Last Word, adding a subtle floral and refreshing element.

Ultimately, the best gin for The Last Word depends on your personal taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different gins to find the one that complements the herbal, citrus, and maraschino flavours to your liking.

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