The Income Tax Cocktail is a 1920s gin-based drink combining dry and sweet vermouth with fresh orange juice and a dash of bitters. Its balanced citrus and herbal profile makes it equally at home during tax season or as a refined year-round aperitif.
Recipe Source
Visit Mr. Boston DrinksFrom Mr. Boston Drinks · by Mr. Boston Official Bartender's Guide
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Shake with ice and strain into chilled cocktail glass.
cocktail shaker · jigger · strainer · coupe or cocktail glass
Dry vermouth adds herbaceous, crisp notes while sweet vermouth contributes roundness and slight sweetness. Both are essential to the Income Tax's balanced flavor profile.
Fresh orange juice is recommended for better flavor and brightness. Bottled juice tends to be duller and can make the drink taste flat.
Bitters add complexity and a subtle spice note that balances the citrus and vermouth. Historically, they also symbolize the bitterness of taxes—a clever touch to the drink's name.
Shake with ice to chill and combine the ingredients thoroughly, then strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.
A London Dry style gin works well. Choose one with balanced botanicals that won't overpower the delicate vermouth and citrus components.
