Income Tax Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your glassware in the freezer for at least 5 minutes before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer.
• Use fresh-squeezed orange juice only—bottled juice will mute the bright citrus notes that balance the vermouth.
• Add a single dash of Angostura bitters last, just before shaking, to avoid muddying the herbal notes.
• Shake the drink over large ice cubes rather than small ice to minimize dilution and chill efficiently.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → any London Dry gin (Bombay Sapphire, Beefeater, Tanqueray)
• Fresh orange juice → grapefruit juice (creates a more bitter, aperitif-forward variation)
• Angostura bitters → orange bitters (adds complementary citrus depth)

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · coupe or cocktail glass · citrus juicer

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

Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin is traditional, but any London Dry-style gin with juniper-forward botanicals works well. Avoid heavily flavored gins.

Should an Income Tax Cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Shake vigorously with ice for 10–15 seconds to chill, combine ingredients, and incorporate the citrus. Strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.

Can you substitute the vermouth in this recipe?

Dry vermouth is essential for balance, but sweet vermouth can be adjusted slightly (use 1/3 oz if you prefer drier). Quality matters—use fresh, unopened bottles.

What is the best glassware for serving an Income Tax Cocktail?

Serve in a coupe glass or cocktail glass. A chilled glass enhances the drink's smoothness.

How do you properly juice an orange for this cocktail?

Use fresh, ripe oranges and hand-squeeze or use a citrus juicer. Strain out pulp. Fresh juice is crucial—avoid bottled juice.