Adonis Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your glass in the freezer for 5 minutes before serving to keep the drink cold longer without excess dilution.
• Use high-quality dry sherry (fino or amontillado)—cheaper versions muddy the herbal balance.
• Stir for exactly 30 seconds over ice to achieve proper dilution and temperature without over-chilling and flattening flavors.
• Add orange bitters last and stir gently to distribute evenly; uneven bitters distribution creates an unbalanced sip.

Substitutions

• Dry sherry → Fino sherry (lighter, more delicate)
• Sweet vermouth → Dry vermouth (creates the Bamboo cocktail, less sweetness)
• Orange bitters → Angostura bitters (earthier spice, less citrus note)

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · bar spoon or long spoon · jigger for measuring · Hawthorne or julep strainer

What type of glass should I use for an Adonis cocktail?

Serve in a coupe or cocktail glass, chilled. The smaller vessel concentrates the aromatics of the vermouth and bitters.

Can I make an Adonis cocktail without dry sherry?

Dry sherry is central to the drink's character. Fino or amontillado sherry work best; avoid oloroso or cream sherry as they're too sweet.

Should I stir or shake an Adonis cocktail?

Stir with ice for 30 seconds, then strain. Stirring keeps the drink silky and prevents oxidation of the delicate fortified wines.

What's the difference between the Adonis and similar cocktails?

The Adonis uses dry sherry as its base; similar drinks like the Bamboo substitute dry vermouth, creating a lighter profile.

Can I make Adonis cocktails ahead of time?

Mix and chill up to 4 hours in advance in a pitcher with ice, then strain into glasses when serving to prevent dilution.