Tuxedo
A late-19th-century martini offshoot with dry vermouth, a touch of maraschino, and aromatic absinthe and bitters.
29%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
coupe
Glass
History & Heritage
“Attributed to New York's Tuxedo Park and printed in late‑19th‑century manuals, the Tuxedo showcases the shift from sweet Martinez-style drinks to the drier Martini, layering Old Tom gin with maraschino, vermouth, and absinthe.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice
Stir until very well chilled
Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass
Garnish with a lemon twist and cherry
Glassware
Served up in a chilled coupe
Garnish
Express oils over the glass
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Rinse or dash absinthe lightly to avoid overpowering
Serve very cold for best clarity
Try with London Dry gin for a crisper profile
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Tuxedo.
Tuxedo No. 2
Uses London Dry gin and heavier gin ratios for a drier style.
Changes
Tuxedo No. 3
Replaces vermouth with fino sherry for a nutty edge.
Changes
Blanc Tuxedo
Uses blanc vermouth for a rounder, slightly sweeter profile.
Changes
Absinthe Rinse Tuxedo
Rinses the glass with absinthe instead of dashing it in.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Casino
An elegant gin sour with maraschino and lemon—bright, botanical, and subtly cherry-kissed.
Turf Club
A sophisticated gin cocktail that bridges the gap between the sweeter Martinez and the drier Martini, featuring complex aromatics from maraschino liqueur and absinthe.
Tuxedo No. 2
A sophisticated Martini variation featuring subtle complexity from maraschino liqueur and an absinthe rinse, representing the elegant cocktail culture of the Gilded Age.