Last Word

Origin and History

The Last Word cocktail hails from Prohibition-era Detroit, where it was first served at the Detroit Athletic Club in the 1920s. Despite its early popularity, the recipe was nearly forgotten until it resurfaced in Ted Saucier’s 1951 book, Bottoms Up. It wasn’t until the 21st century that the Last Word found new life, thanks to the craft cocktail movement, where bartenders rediscovered its perfect balance of gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice.

This equal-parts cocktail has become a beloved staple in modern bars, offering a unique combination of herbal, sweet, and tart flavors that appeal to adventurous drinkers.

Flavour Profile

Herbaceous, tart, and slightly sweet, the Last Word balances the gin’s botanicals with the complex, earthy notes of Chartreuse and the cherry sweetness of maraschino. The fresh lime juice adds a bright, zesty kick, making it a perfectly balanced cocktail with layers of flavor.

How to Serve

Pour into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lime wheel or twist to complement the citrus and herbal aromas. Serve it chilled to let the flavors shine without overpowering one another.