Income Tax Cocktail

Pro tips

• Use freshly squeezed orange juice; bottled juice lacks the brightness needed to balance the fortified wines.
• Chill your glass before shaking to maintain proper temperature after straining.
• Use equal parts dry and sweet vermouth (1/4 oz each) to maintain the cocktail's classic balance; adjust to taste preference.
• Add the dash of bitters last for complexity; it bridges the vermouth and citrus flavors without overpowering.

Substitutions

• Dry Vermouth → Dry Sherry (slightly nutty, less herbal)
• Sweet Vermouth → Sweet Sherry or Carpano Antica Formula (richer, less spiced)
• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → Tanqueray or Beefeater (similar botanicals, more accessible)

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger or measuring spoon · fine mesh strainer · coupe glass or cocktail glass

What type of gin works best in an Income Tax Cocktail?

A London Dry or Classic Dry gin works best. Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin is traditional, but any dry gin with juniper-forward botanicals will balance the vermouth and bitters.

Should an Income Tax Cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Shake with ice. The fresh orange juice and vermouth require shaking to chill and properly combine the ingredients.

Can I make an Income Tax Cocktail without fresh orange juice?

Fresh juice is recommended for balance and flavor. Bottled orange juice will work but lacks the brightness and complexity of freshly squeezed juice.

What glassware is appropriate for serving?

Serve in a coupe glass or cocktail glass, strained and chilled, with an orange twist for garnish.

How much does this recipe yield?

One cocktail. Double or triple the recipe proportionally for multiple drinks.