Adonis Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving to maintain the cocktail's temperature without excessive ice dilution.
• Measure ingredients precisely using a jigger—the 1.5:0.75 ratio of sherry to vermouth is critical to the drink's balance.
• Stir with ice for a full 30 seconds to achieve proper dilution and temperature; under-stirring results in a warm, unbalanced cocktail.
• Use fresh, high-quality dry sherry and sweet vermouth; this simple drink relies entirely on spirit quality.

Substitutions

• Dry Sherry → Dry Vermouth (creates a drier, less fruity profile)
• Sweet Vermouth → Bianco Vermouth (lighter, more herbal character)

Equipment

mixing glass · bar spoon · jigger · coupe or cocktail glass

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

Use a dry sherry (Fino or Amontillado work well). Avoid cream or sweet sherries, which would overpower the balance with the sweet vermouth.

Can I make an Adonis cocktail without orange bitters?

The dash of orange bitters is essential for the drink's signature flavor profile. Omitting it will result in a flatter, less complex drink.

Should an Adonis cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Stir the cocktail with ice in a mixing glass for 30 seconds, then strain into a chilled glass. Shaking is not traditional and will add unwanted aeration.

What glassware is best for serving an Adonis?

Serve in a chilled coupe glass or cocktail glass. A chilled glass keeps the drink cold longer without dilution.