Last Word

Last Word

Equal parts gin, Green Chartreuse, maraschino and lime shaken cold—a neon green Prohibition relic turned modern darling.

32%

ABV

medium

Difficulty

coupe

Glass

Flavor Profile

History & Heritage

The Last Word first appeared on a 1916 Detroit Athletic Club menu, pairing equal parts gin, Green Chartreuse, maraschino and lime. After fading post‑WWII, Seattle bartender Murray Stenson rediscovered the recipe in 2004 and sparked a nationwide revival that cemented the drink as a craft‑cocktail touchstone.

Ingredients

Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.

Method

Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.

1

Add all ingredients to a shaker filled with ice

2

Shake vigorously for 15 seconds

3

Double strain into a chilled coupe glass

4

No garnish needed

Glassware

coupe

Served up in a chilled coupe glass

Garnish

None

No garnish

Optional

Master's Tips

Professional insights to elevate your craft

Measure ingredients precisely—its balance depends on equality

Use fresh lime juice and a hard shake for proper dilution

Serve icy cold; no garnish needed but a Luxardo cherry is acceptable

Flavor Journey

Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.

4

Sweet

out of 10

6

Sour

out of 10

3

Bitter

out of 10

8

Strong

out of 10

Variations & Riffs

Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Last Word.

Gin-Heavy

Minor Tweak

Boost gin to 1 oz for a drier backbone.

Changes
Gin:0.8 oz1 oz

Final Ward

Major Variation

Rye whiskey and lemon replace gin and lime.

Changes

Last of the Oaxacans

Major Variation

Mezcal brings smoke to the template.

Changes

Dublin Minstrel

Major Variation

Irish whiskey riff inspired by performer Frank Fogarty.

Changes

More to Explore

If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.

Last Word Cocktail Recipe - medium 32% ABV | Garnish