Now, we here at HITTHiSBAR are firm believers in a cocktail being something to alter to personal preference. (It’s why we do things like make our own Allspice Dram). However, when it comes to certain classics, Last Word included, stick as closely to the original recipe as you can. There’s no substitute for Green Chartreuse (no, not even it’s yellow little brother), and using a different cherry liqueur will give you a completely different final flavour profile.
A common misconception with the Last Word is that it’s all about the more prominent flavours from the Chartreuse and Maraschino. That couldn’t be further from the truth, as it’s a showcase of how a well-balanced drink can become so much greater than the sum of its parts.
That said, finding the right gin for you can help elevate your Last Word. Originally made with a London Dry, we went for Rutte’s Celery Gin. The flavours from the botanicals stand up to the sometimes overpowering Chartreuse and Maraschino, while complimenting them without altering the profile of the cocktail as a whole too much.
22.5ml - Rutte’s Celery Gin
22.5ml - Green Chartreuse
22.5ml - Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
22.5ml - Fresh Lime Juice
Shake
Garnish with a Maraschino Cherry
HITTHiSBAR: Why The Last Word Is So Important
