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The Last Word Cocktail: A Zesty Classic That’ll Leave You Speechless

The Rusty Bartender

Updated: Jan 31


Last Word Cocktail
Last Word Cocktail

If you’re on the hunt for a cocktail that’s equal parts timeless, tantalizing, and just a little mysterious, look no further than the Last Word. This prohibition-era gem is a symphony of flavors, balancing sweet, sour, herbal, and boozy in a way that’ll have you raising your glass and saying, “Why don’t I make this more often?” Spoiler alert: you’ll want to.



And hey, if reading isn’t your thing (but cocktails definitely are), you’re in luck! I’ve made a YouTube video showing you how to whip up this iconic drink step-by-step. Scroll to the end for the link—or, you know, keep reading if you enjoy witty banter and learning all the things you can casually brag about at your next cocktail party.






A Brief History of the Last Word Cocktail

The Last Word was born in the roaring 1920s at the Detroit Athletic Club, where it dazzled patrons before fading into obscurity like a one-hit wonder. But like all great comebacks (think vinyl records, bucket hats, and Keanu Reeves), the Last Word found its way back to the spotlight. In 2004, Seattle bartender Murray Stenson dusted off the recipe and put it back on the menu at the Zig Zag Café. The rest is cocktail history.





What’s in the Last Word Cocktail?

This beauty is all about balance, and its ingredient list is delightfully short and sweet:

  • Gin: Your trusty spirit that brings the backbone and a botanical punch.

  • Green Chartreuse: The herbal, slightly spicy star of the show, made by Carthusian monks with a recipe so secret it’s basically the cocktail world’s Area 51.

  • Maraschino Liqueur: Sweet, nutty, and cherry-ish (but not in a cough-syrup way, promise).

  • Fresh Lime Juice: The zesty, citrusy kiss that ties it all together.


Equal parts of each (yes, really!) shaken with ice and strained into a coupe glass. It’s as simple as it is sublime.






Why the Last Word Is a Bartender’s Favorite

Bartenders love the Last Word for the same reason foodies love avocado toast: it’s a classic that always delivers. The combination of flavors is so perfectly balanced that you’d think some cocktail deity whispered the recipe into a mixologist’s ear. Plus, it’s a fantastic conversation starter. “Oh, did you know this cocktail was originally created in the 1920s? And that Green Chartreuse is made by monks?” Boom. Instant cool points.



If you’re searching for cocktail inspiration, chances are you’ve Googled things like “easy gin cocktail recipes,” “how to use Green Chartreuse,” or “best cocktails with maraschino liqueur.” Ding ding ding! The Last Word checks all those boxes. It’s also great for anyone curious about prohibition-era drinks, classic cocktails, or simply making something that tastes like victory in a glass.





Tips for Making the Perfect Last Word Cocktail

  1. Use fresh lime juice. Seriously, put the store-bought stuff down. Fresh lime juice is the MVP here.

  2. Chill your glass. A cold coupe glass keeps the drink crisp and refreshing.

  3. Shake it like you mean it. Get those ingredients mingling like old friends at a high school reunion.

  4. Don’t skimp on the Chartreuse. Yes, it’s pricey, but it’ll last you ages and elevate countless cocktails.



Watch Me Make the Last Word Cocktail

If you’ve made it this far, congratulations! You’re officially a Last Word aficionado—or at least ready to fake it until you make it. To see the magic in action, check out my YouTube video where I break down the steps and (probably) crack a few dad jokes along the way. Click below and join me for a drink!



Last Word Youtube Video


Cheers to discovering your new favorite drink! Let me know in the comments if you tried it, loved it, or have a fun twist you’d like to share. Until next time, keep sipping and savoring life one cocktail at a time.




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The Rusty Bartender
Wangaratta , Victoria , Australia

ABN 35906093959
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