Tuxedo No. 3
A sophisticated Martini variation distinguished by the addition of fino sherry, which adds unique nutty and saline complexity to this elegant gin cocktail from the Golden Age.
34%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
coupe
Glass
History & Heritage
“The Tuxedo No. 3 appeared in Paul E. Lowe's 1904 "Drinks As They Are Mixed" and Jacques Straub's 1914 "Drinks," representing an evolutionary branch in the Tuxedo family. Distinguished by its inclusion of sherry wine, it showcased the creativity of early 20th-century bartenders who experimented with fortified wines beyond vermouth. The drink represents a fascinating moment in cocktail history when bartenders explored complex flavor combinations within the Martini framework during the Golden Age of cocktails.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
2 oz
0.7 oz
0.2 oz
1 dashes
1 dashes
3 dashes
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a coupe or Nick & Nora glass thoroughly in freezer or with ice water
In a mixing glass, combine all ingredients
Fill mixing glass two-thirds full with high-quality, cold ice
Stir briskly for 20-30 seconds until exterior is well-frosted
Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass
Express oils from a lemon peel over the drink's surface by twisting sharply
Drop the lemon twist into the glass
Glassware
Served up in a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass
Garnish
Express oils and drop in 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
Use a light hand with the sherry - even small amounts have significant impact
Fino sherry like Tio Pepe is ideal for its delicate, crisp, and dry profile
Avoid over-pouring maraschino and absinthe as they are powerful modifiers
High-quality ice is crucial for proper chilling without over-dilution
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Tuxedo No. 3.
Higher Gin Ratio
More gin for a spirit-forward profile
Changes
Increased Sherry
More pronounced nutty flavor with additional sherry
Changes
Plymouth Version
Uses Plymouth gin for a softer, more earthy character
Changes
Old Tom Historical
Uses Old Tom gin for a sweeter, more historically accurate version
Changes
Manzanilla Variation
Substitutes Manzanilla sherry for lighter, more coastal salinity
Changes
Modern Kevin Martin
Contemporary interpretation with aged genever and orange bitters
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Obituary Cocktail
A potent and aromatic spin on the classic Gin Martini, distinguished by a haunting whisper of absinthe. Born in New Orleans, this cocktail offers complex, herbaceous, and licorice-tinged flavors.
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.