A Tuxedo No. 2 is a classic cocktail that has gained popularity over the years. It is a variation of the original Tuxedo cocktail, which is believed to have been created in the late 19th century. The Tuxedo No. 2, also known as the Tuxedo Cocktail No. 2, is typically made with gin, maraschino liqueur, vermouth, and a touch of absinthe.
The use of gin as the base spirit gives the Tuxedo No. 2 a strong and distinct flavor profile. Gin is a spirit that is typically made from juniper berries and various botanicals, which can include herbs, spices, and citrus peels. This combination of flavors gives gin its unique taste, and when mixed with the other ingredients in the Tuxedo No. 2, it creates a complex and well-balanced cocktail.
Maraschino liqueur is another key component of the Tuxedo No. 2. It is a clear, cherry-flavored liqueur that adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the cocktail. Maraschino liqueur is made from the distillation of Marasca cherries, and its subtle cherry flavor complements the other ingredients in the Tuxedo No. 2.
Vermouth, a fortified wine flavored with various botanicals, is also an essential ingredient in the Tuxedo No. 2. Vermouth can be either dry (white) or sweet (red), and in the case of the Tuxedo No. 2, dry vermouth is typically used. The dry vermouth adds a slight herbal and floral note to the cocktail, enhancing its complexity.
A small amount of absinthe is used in the Tuxedo No. 2 to provide a hint of anise flavor and a touch of bitterness. Absinthe is a highly alcoholic spirit that is flavored with botanicals, including wormwood. It was historically known for its green color and its association with the bohemian culture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In the Tuxedo No. 2, the absinthe adds a subtle layer of complexity to the cocktail without overpowering the other flavors.
When properly made, the Tuxedo No. 2 is a beautifully balanced cocktail that showcases the flavors of the individual ingredients while creating a harmonious whole. The gin provides a strong and aromatic base, while the maraschino liqueur adds sweetness and depth. The dry vermouth contributes herbal and floral notes, and the absinthe adds a touch of bitterness and anise flavor.
It's worth mentioning that there is some debate among cocktail enthusiasts about the exact ingredients and ratios for the Tuxedo No. 2. Some variations may include additional ingredients such as orange bitters or orange flower water. The ratios of the ingredients can also vary depending on personal preference, with some preferring a stronger gin flavor and others opting for a more balanced approach.
The Tuxedo No. 2 is a classic cocktail that combines gin, maraschino liqueur, vermouth, and absinthe. Its complex flavor profile and well-balanced combination of ingredients make it a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the original Tuxedo or the Tuxedo No. 2, both variations offer a delightful and sophisticated drinking experience.