Tuxedo Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your glass in the freezer or with ice water for at least 2 minutes before serving to keep the cocktail cold without excess dilution.
• Stir the drink for a full 30 seconds over ice to achieve proper dilution and temperature; strain immediately into the glass.
• Measure the maraschino and absinthe substitute precisely—their small volumes have outsized flavor impact and can easily unbalance the drink if poured free-pour.
• Use quality dry gin and vermouth; their botanicals form the base, so cheaper spirits will noticeably flatten the final result.

Substitutions

• Dry Vermouth → Blanc or dry white vermouth (slightly sweeter but still dry)
• Absinthe Substitute → Pastis or Pernod (anise-forward, milder than absinthe)
• Old Mr. Boston Dry Gin → Any London Dry gin (Tanqueray, Beefeater, or comparable)
• Orange Bitters → Angostura bitters (more herbal, slightly less citrus brightness)

Storage & make-ahead

Prepare a batch without ice and refrigerate up to 2 days in a sealed bottle; stir with fresh ice and strain individual servings when ready.

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · bar spoon · jigger (1.25 oz and 0.25 tsp measures) · fine mesh strainer · coupe or martini glass

What is the difference between a Tuxedo Cocktail and a Martini?

A Tuxedo uses maraschino liqueur and absinthe substitute in addition to gin and vermouth, adding sweetness and herbal complexity that a dry martini lacks.

Can I use regular absinthe instead of an absinthe substitute?

Yes, but use the same 1/4 tsp measure. Absinthe is stronger, so the substitute keeps the drink balanced; adjust to taste if using full-strength absinthe.

Should a Tuxedo Cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Stir with ice for 30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly; straining into a coupe or cocktail glass maintains its silky texture and clarity.

What glassware is best for serving a Tuxedo Cocktail?

A chilled coupe, martini, or cocktail glass works best; chill the glass beforehand by filling it with ice while you prepare the drink.

Can I batch a Tuxedo Cocktail in advance?

Mix the spirits and bitters ahead of time, but stir with ice and strain only when serving to preserve freshness and proper dilution.