Adonis Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your coupe glass with ice water before stirring; it keeps the cocktail cold without dilution.
• Use quality dry sherry (fino or amontillado work well) — it's the dominant spirit and worth investing in.
• Stir gently for 20-30 seconds; over-stirring dilutes the drink and mutes the delicate fortified flavors.
• The dash of orange bitters is essential — don't skip it; it bridges the sherry and vermouth flavors.

Substitutions

• Dry vermouth → Italian vermouth for a drier version (though this changes the classic profile)
• Orange bitters → Angostura bitters (more herbal, less citrus-forward)

What type of vermouth should I use for an Adonis?

Use Italian (sweet) vermouth, not dry vermouth. The sweetness balances the sherry and bitters.

Should I stir or shake an Adonis cocktail?

Stir it with ice for 20-30 seconds until well-chilled, then strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.

What's the best glass for serving?

Serve in a coupe glass or small cocktail glass. It's typically served without ice (up).

Can I make this ahead?

Mix the ingredients just before serving for best flavor. Pre-chilling your glass helps.

What's a good garnish?

A lemon twist or cherry is traditional, though the drink is often served ungarished.