Chapter IV

Last Word

The Last Word cocktail is a classic drink with a fascinating history. It originated during the Prohibition era in the United States in the early 1920s and was created at the Detroit Athletic Club. The cocktail remained relatively unknown until it was rediscovered and popularized by modern mixologists in the early 2000s.

As mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts began to delve into the world of classic cocktails and rediscover forgotten recipes, the Last Word emerged as a shining example of a unique and perfectly balanced drink. Its resurgence not only introduced a new generation to the joys of the Last Word but also sparked a broader interest in exploring and reviving other forgotten cocktails from the past.

The Last Word is a complex yet balanced cocktail, consisting of equal parts gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice. The drink's revival can be credited to Murray Stenson, a renowned bartender at the Zig Zag Café in Seattle. Stenson stumbled upon the recipe in Ted Saucier's 1951 cocktail book, "Bottoms Up!" and added it to the Zig Zag Café's menu, sparking a resurgence in its popularity. Today, the Last Word is celebrated as a classic cocktail and is enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.

Ingredients

  • Gin, 1 part
  • Green Chartreuse, 1 part
  • Maraschino liqueur, 1 part
  • Fresh lime juice, 1 part

Preparation

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, add add all ingredients and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill the ingredients. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.