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The Tuxedo No. 2 cocktail is a sneaky riff on the classic gin Martini that dates back to the early 1900s. It’s similar to a typical dry gin Martini but introduces orange bitters, absinthe, and maraschino liqueur, creating a far more complex and balanced cocktail.
Table of Contents
Brief History
The Tuxedo No. 2 is a classic cocktail that originated in the late 19th to early 20th century, inspired by the famous Tuxedo Club in Tuxedo Park, New York. This cocktail is a variation of the Tuxedo No. 1, which is also a twist on the Martini. The Tuxedo No. 2 features gin, dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, absinthe (or anise-flavored spirit), and orange bitters, often garnished with a lemon twist or cherry.
The Tuxedo No. 2 offers more complex herbal and citrus notes and a slightly sweeter profile thanks to the addition of maraschino liqueur. The ingredients complement the botanicals in gin better than other variations. If you’re a gin lover, it’s something you need to try!
Looking for more delicious gin classics? Some of my favorites include the Last Word cocktail, Corpse Reviver 2, Aviation cocktail, and the beloved by all Bee’s Knees.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Gin: look for a classic dry gin. I like Plymouth Gin or Aviation Gin.
- Maraschino liqueur: a clear, sweet liqueur with a distinctive cherry flavor. It is made from Marasca cherries. Luxardo is my favorite brand. Here are more cocktails you can make with maraschino liqueur.
- Dry vermouth: I prefer Dolin or Noilly Prat. Martini & Rossi is another easy-to-find option.
- Orange bitters: orange bitters add essential citrus. Look for Scrappy’s or Fee Brothers. Don’t skip this ingredient!
- Absinthe: Absinthe is not mandatory but it does enhance the cocktail flavor, adding additional anise flavor. Any Absinthe you can find should do the trick. A bottle will last years.
- Lemon peel: Expressed lemon peel adds a burst of citrus flavor and aroma. I highly recommend not skipping this.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities below.
Expert Tips
- The lemon peel is not only a garnish, but a critical element of the drink. The oils add an important aroma that adds complexity and freshness.
- Freeze your coupe glasses. This helps keep your drink cooler for longer. You can alternatively chill your glass down with ice water before filling.
- While this cocktail is traditionally stirred, it’s a matter of personal preference. If you do shake it, be sure to double strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove tiny ice chips.
- For an easy absinthe rinse, I use a mini food-grade spray bottle and spray the inside of the glass. This reduces waste and saves time.
More Classic Gin Cocktails
Enjoy this recipe? If you made this cocktail, please leave a ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ star rating in the recipe card below & a review in the comments!
Tuxedo No. 2 Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 ounces dry gin, Plymouth Gin, Aviation Gin, Beefeater
- 3/4 ounce dry vermouth, I prefer Dolin
- 1/4 ounce maraschino liqueur, Luxardo
- 2 dashes orange bitters, Scrappy's, Fee Brothers
- Absinthe rinse
- Orange peel, for garnish
- Brandied cherry, for garnish
Instructions
- Pour a splash of absinthe into a chilled coupe glass. Twirl to coat the inside of the glass and discard the excess.
- Combine gin, vermouth, maraschino, and orange bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until chilled and strain into the coupe glass.
- Express the orange peel over the drink. Garnish with the orange peel and a brandied cherry.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Mistake on my part. Garnish ain’t right either 😜