Tuxedo Cocktail

The Tuxedo cocktail is often described as a “martini style” drink, emphasizing its sophistication and classic appeal. Like the martini, it features a base spirit (usually gin), enhanced by a combination of vermouth and other ingredients. However, what sets the Tuxedo apart are its unique additions.

The classic Tuxedo cocktail typically includes gin, dry vermouth, Maraschino liqueur, and a touch of absinthe. This combination creates a complex and well-balanced flavor profile, with the herbal notes of absinthe complementing the botanicals of gin, while the Maraschino liqueur adds a hint of sweetness. The drink is garnished with a lemon twist or cherry, adding a touch of elegance and aroma.

The origins of the Tuxedo cocktail are somewhat elusive, and like many classic cocktails, it has undergone numerous variations over the years. While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact moment of its creation, it is widely believed to have gained prominence in the late 19th century. Its inclusion in Harry Johnson’s Bartenders’ Manual in 1900 solidifies its existence in the mixology world at that time.

One theory regarding the cocktail’s name suggests that it was inspired by the Tuxedo Club, a prestigious social club in Tuxedo Park, New York. The club’s formal dress code may have inspired the name, hinting at the cocktail’s elegant and refined nature. However, some argue that the cocktail’s true origins are rooted in the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, where it was popularized and underwent variations.

While the Tuxedo cocktail is often referred to as a “martini style” drink, it bears more similarities to another classic cocktail: the Turf Club. The Turf Club cocktail, like the Tuxedo, features gin as its primary spirit and includes vermouth, Maraschino liqueur, and absinthe. The key difference between the two lies in the proportions and preparation.

The Tuxedo cocktail typically calls for equal parts gin and dry vermouth, with smaller quantities of Maraschino liqueur and absinthe. In contrast, the Turf Club cocktail features a higher ratio of gin to vermouth, making it a slightly drier option.

Tuxedo Cocktail Recipe

1. 45 ml Gin

2. 45 ml Dry vermouth

3. 7.5 ml Maraschino liqueur

4. 2 dashes of Orange bitters

5. 1 dash Absinthe

6. Ice

7. Garnish: a lemon twist