Last Word

Last Word is a bright, balanced cocktail recipe with a crisp herbal character and a smooth, refreshing finish. This classic drink brings lively citrus, light sweetness, and a clean botanical edge that feels elegant and easy to enjoy. If you want to know how to make a Last Word, this cocktail recipe is a stylish choice for happy hour, dinner parties, or a refined evening at home.

Glass

Coupe

Prep Time

5 min

Difficulty

Medium

Alchol

Ingredients

1

3/4 oz gin

2

3/4 oz green Chartreuse

3

3/4 oz maraschino liqueur

4

3/4 oz fresh lime juice

5

Garnish: brandied cherry (optional)

Steps

1

Step 1

Fill a shaker with gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice.
2

Step 2

Add ice and shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
3

Step 3

Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.
4

Step 4

Serve immediately.

Flavor Profile

History

The Last Word is a classic gin cocktail that originated at the Detroit Athletic Club in the early 1900s. It became known for its equal parts structure and distinctive flavor, then gained new popularity during the modern cocktail revival. Today, the Last Word is considered an important pre Prohibition era drink in cocktail history.

FAQ

What is a Last Word cocktail made of?
A Last Word is made with gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice. The classic recipe uses equal parts of each, which gives it a bright, herbal, and slightly tart flavor.
How strong is a Last Word cocktail?
The Last Word is fairly strong because it contains three alcoholic ingredients and no low proof mixer. Even so, the lime juice keeps it balanced and makes it taste crisp rather than heavy.
Can I make a Last Word without green Chartreuse?
Green Chartreuse is a key ingredient, so the drink will not taste quite the same without it. If needed, some people try another herbal liqueur, but the result is more of a variation than a true Last Word.
What does a Last Word cocktail taste like?
It tastes herbal, citrusy, slightly sweet, and nicely tart. The gin brings freshness, the Chartreuse adds bold herbal notes, and the maraschino gives a subtle cherry like sweetness.
Why is it called the Last Word?
The Last Word is a classic Prohibition era cocktail that is believed to have originated at the Detroit Athletic Club. Its unusual name helped it stand out, and the drink later became popular again during the modern cocktail revival.
What is the best gin for a Last Word?
A London dry gin is a popular choice because it gives the drink a clean, crisp structure. You can also use a more floral gin if you want a softer and more aromatic version.