Tuxedo

The Tuxedo is a sophisticated “The Unforgettable” classic composed of Old Tom Gin, Dry Sherry, Maraschino Liqueur, Absinthe, and Orange Bitters. It is a complex, oxidative evolution of the Martini, celebrated for its unique pairing of botanical gin and fortified wine, and its status as a refined relic of the late 19th-century New York club scene.

Key Takeaways

• Alcoholic Base: Old Tom Gin (lightly sweetened gin).
• Core Modifier: Dry Sherry (Fino or Manzanilla).
• Service: Stirred and served “up.”
• Glassware: Chilled Cocktail (Martini) glass.

History: Tuxedo Park and the Gilded Age

The Tuxedo is part of a family of drinks named after the Tuxedo Park Club in New York, which famously gave the “Tuxedo” dinner jacket its name.

The 1880s Evolution

The drink appeared in various forms in the late 1800s. It represents a transition point in mixology where bartenders began experimenting with fortified wines (like Sherry and Vermouth) to create “lighter,” more aromatic alternatives to pure spirit punches.

The Savoy Standard

The version we recognize today was popularized in the Savoy Cocktail Book (1930). It is distinct from the Tuxedo No. 2, which uses dry vermouth instead of sherry. The ” Sherry Tuxedo” is prized by connoisseurs for its more complex, nutty profile.

Ingredient Analysis

Old Tom Gin: The Historical Bridge

Old Tom Gin is “the missing link” between Dutch Genever and London Dry. It is slightly sweeter and has a richer mouthfeel than London Dry. This sweetness is essential to balance the bone-dry, saline quality of the sherry.

Dry Sherry: The Saline Modifier

You must use a dry sherry (e.g., Fino or Manzanilla). These wines provide an oxidative, nutty, and slightly salty complexity that standard vermouth cannot match. It gives the Tuxedo a “savory” edge that is incredibly sophisticated.

The “Aromatic Seasoning”

• Maraschino Liqueur: Provides a hint of cherry-stone funk and floral sweetness.
• Absinthe: Just a dash (or a rinse) to introduce a ghost-like scent of anise.

Preparation Mechanics

1. The Ratio: The IBA ratio (1:1 Gin to Sherry) makes this a lower-ABV, highly aromatic “session” Martini.
2. The Stir: Add all ingredients into a mixing glass with large ice cubes. Stir gently for 30 seconds. The higher volume of sherry (which has a lower freeze point than gin) means you need a long stir to achieve the correct temperature.
3. The Strain: Strain into a well-chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish: A Maraschino cherry (sunken) and a lemon zest (twisted and expressed). The combination of the dark fruit and the bright citrus oil mirrors the complexity of the liquid.

Tasting Profile

The Tuxedo is a marvel of bone-dry complexity. The initial nose is floral and citrusy. The first sip is light and saline, featuring the crisp, almond notes of the sherry. The mid-palate reveals the botanical depth of the Old Tom gin and the subtle, funkier sweetness of the maraschino. The finish is remarkably dry, clean, and herbal, with the absinthe providing a long, aromatic tail. It is the ultimate choice for the Martini drinker looking for an oxidative, “savory” twist.