Turf Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your coupe or cocktail glass with ice water before straining to keep the drink cold longer.
• Use a 1:1 gin-to-vermouth ratio as a guideline; adjust based on whether you prefer a gin-forward or more balanced sip.
• Stir for a full 30 seconds to achieve proper dilution and silky mouthfeel; under-stirring results in a hot, sharp drink.
• Add bitters last after other ingredients are combined to ensure even distribution.

Substitutions

• Dry Vermouth → Blanc Vermouth (adds slight sweetness and floral notes)
• Anisette → Pastis or Absinthe (provides similar anise character with different intensity)
• Gin → Genever or Old Tom Gin (shifts profile toward malt or subtle sweetness)

Storage & make-ahead

Cocktails are served fresh; prepare and drink immediately after straining.

Equipment

cocktail mixing glass · bar spoon · jigger or measuring tool · strainer

What is a Turf Cocktail?

A classic cocktail built on gin and dry vermouth with a touch of anisette liqueur and bitters, similar in spirit to a martini but with added herbal complexity.

Do I need to stir or shake a Turf Cocktail?

Stir this cocktail with ice for 30 seconds to properly dilute and chill without adding excess aeration.

Can I substitute the anisette?

Pastis or absinthe work as alternatives to provide the anise character, though they will shift the flavor profile slightly.

What type of gin works best?

London Dry style gin is traditional; choose one with balanced botanicals that won't overpower the vermouth and anisette.