Tuxedo Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your glassware for 5 minutes before serving to keep the drink cold longer.
• Use quality dry vermouth; it oxidizes quickly after opening, so buy smaller bottles and use within 2 months.
• Measure the maraschino and absinthe substitute precisely—they're potent; even small overages will throw off balance.
• Stir gently for 30 seconds; over-dilution dulls the herbal notes and absinthe character.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → Tanqueray or Bols (similar juniper-forward profile)
• Dry Vermouth → Dry sherry or dry white wine (adds nuttiness; reduce to ⅞ oz for balance)
• Maraschino → Luxardo Maraschino or triple sec (Luxardo is more authentic; triple sec adds orange sweetness)
• Absinthe Substitute → Pastis or Pernod (more anise-forward; use same measure)

Storage & make-ahead

This is a cocktail best served fresh. Prepare components separately and store spirits at room temperature or chilled; mix and serve immediately.

Equipment

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

What can I use instead of absinthe substitute?

Use ¼ tsp pastis, Pernod, or a drop of real absinthe. Skip it entirely for a drier drink if unavailable.

Should a Tuxedo cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Stir with ice for 30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly. Strain into a coupe or cocktail glass.

What garnish works best?

Express orange peel oils over the drink and drop it in, or add a cherry if you prefer sweetness.

Can I make a batch ahead?

Mix the spirits and bitters in a bottle; store chilled. Stir with ice and strain into glasses just before serving.

What's the difference between a Tuxedo and a Martini?

The Tuxedo adds maraschino and absinthe to a gin-vermouth base, creating herbal and slightly sweet notes versus a dry Martini.