A drink beginning with L that comes to mind is a classic cocktail known as the “Last Word.” This cocktail has a rich history and is often enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.
The Last Word is a unique and complex cocktail that combines equal parts of four different ingredients: gin, green Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice. It is typically served straight up in a chilled cocktail glass, without any ice.
When preparing the Last Word, it is common to shake the ingredients vigorously with ice in a cocktail shaker. The shaking process not only chills the drink but also helps to mix the ingredients thoroughly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
However, if you prefer your Last Word stirred instead of shaken, you can certainly do so. Stirring the cocktail with ice has a slightly different effect on the drink. It tends to dilute the cocktail by about 25%, compared to shaking which dilutes it by about 30%.
The dilution that occurs when a drink is stirred or shaken with ice is an important aspect of cocktail making. It helps to mellow the flavors, balance the ingredients, and create a smoother drinking experience. The cold temperature from the ice also contributes to the overall enjoyment of the cocktail.
If you choose to serve the Last Word over ice instead of straight up, the dilution will still be around 30%, as the ice will gradually melt and mix with the cocktail. This can be a refreshing option, especially during hot summer days or when you prefer a longer sipping experience.
I recall a time when I experimented with the Last Word by stirring it with ice and serving it over ice. The dilution brought out subtle nuances in the flavors of the gin, Chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and lime juice. The herbal notes from the Chartreuse were more pronounced, and the citrusy lime flavors were slightly subdued. It was a different but equally enjoyable way to experience the Last Word.
Whether you choose to stir or shake the Last Word, or serve it straight up or over ice, the dilution will vary slightly. Stirring with ice and serving up dilutes the drink by about 25%, while shaking with ice and serving up or serving over ice dilutes it by about 30%. These variations in dilution can affect the taste profile of the cocktail, allowing you to tailor your drinking experience to your personal preferences. Cheers!