The Last Word

The Last Word

Alessandro Scire Calabrisotto

The Last Word: A Timeless Cocktail of Balance and Elegance

Brief Introduction

The Last Word is a classic cocktail that embodies balance and complexity. With equal parts gin, Green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice, it delivers a harmonious blend of herbal, citrus, and sweet flavors. Its history, spanning nearly a century, reflects the evolution of cocktail culture, making it a favorite among mixologists and enthusiasts alike.

History of The Last Word

The Last Word dates back to the Prohibition era, first appearing in the 1920s at the Detroit Athletic Club. It was crafted by a bartender whose identity remains uncertain but whose creation became legendary. Initially a luxurious choice due to its use of Green Chartreuse—a high-proof herbal liqueur made by Carthusian monks—the cocktail quickly gained popularity among Detroit’s elite.

However, The Last Word fell into obscurity after Prohibition ended, overshadowed by simpler cocktails that required fewer ingredients. It wasn’t until the early 2000s that it experienced a resurgence, thanks to Seattle bartender Murray Stenson, who discovered the recipe in an old cocktail book and introduced it to a new generation. Its revival was met with enthusiasm, and The Last Word is now considered a staple of the modern craft cocktail movement.

Recipe: How to Make The Last Word

Crafting The Last Word is delightfully simple, thanks to its equal-parts formula. Here’s the recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 22.5 ml (0.75 oz) Gin

  • 22.5 ml (0.75 oz) Green Chartreuse

  • 22.5 ml (0.75 oz) Maraschino Liqueur

  • 22.5 ml (0.75 oz) Fresh Lime Juice

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add all ingredients to a shaker filled with ice.

  2. Shake: Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds to chill and mix thoroughly.

  3. Strain: Double strain into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.

  4. Garnish: Traditionally ungarnished, but a thin lime wheel or a cherry can be added for visual flair.

Tips for Perfection:

  • Use a high-quality gin, such as Plymouth or Tanqueray, to complement the herbal notes.

  • Opt for Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur for authentic flavor.

  • Ensure your Green Chartreuse is fresh and stored properly to retain its vibrant herbal profile.

Additional Recommendations

Variations:

  • The Final Ward: Substitute gin with rye whiskey and lime juice with lemon juice for a warmer, spicier variation.

  • Paper Plane Inspiration: Add Aperol and amaro to explore modern adaptations inspired by The Last Word.

  • Softer Touch: Use a lower-proof gin for a lighter version that retains its complexity.

Pairings:

The Last Word’s intricate flavor profile pairs wonderfully with equally refined dishes. Consider serving it with:

  • Goat Cheese Crostini: The cocktail’s acidity cuts through the creaminess of the cheese.

  • Herb-Crusted Chicken: Complements the herbal notes of Green Chartreuse.

  • Citrus Desserts: Pair with a lemon tart or lime sorbet for a harmonious finish.

Presentation:

  • Serve in a polished coupe or Nick & Nora glass to highlight its pale green hue.

  • Use clear ice in the shaker to avoid dilution and ensure a clean presentation.

  • Keep garnishes minimal to let the cocktail’s color and clarity shine.

Curiosity: A Fun Fact About The Last Word

Green Chartreuse, one of the key ingredients in The Last Word, is made by Carthusian monks in France using a secret recipe of 130 herbs. Its production process is so guarded that only two monks know the full formula at any given time, adding an air of mystery to this iconic cocktail.

Sources


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