The Last Word cocktail, a classic and beloved drink, has an interesting and somewhat debated origin. According to the 1951 cocktail book Bottoms Up! by Ted Saucier, the Last Word was first served around 30 years prior at the Detroit Athletic Club. It was later introduced in New York by Frank Fogarty. However, the exact inventor of this cocktail remains somewhat unclear.
The Detroit Athletic Club was known for its vibrant and innovative cocktail scene during the early 20th century. It was a gathering place for many influential individuals, including bartenders who were constantly experimenting with new drink recipes. The Last Word is said to have emerged from this creative environment, where mixologists were constantly seeking to craft unique and memorable cocktails.
Frank Fogarty, an Irish immigrant and bartender, is often credited with introducing the Last Word to New York. Fogarty was known for his charismatic personality and his talent for creating delicious and inventive drinks. He gained recognition for his skill in mixing cocktails and was a popular figure in the New York bar scene during the early 20th century. Fogarty's reputation as a bartender and his association with the Last Word cocktail helped to popularize the drink in the city.
However, it is worth noting that while Saucier's account in Bottoms Up! provides some information on the origins of the Last Word, it is not the only source of information on this topic. The cocktail world is filled with stories and legends, and the true origins of many drinks can often be difficult to pinpoint definitively.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have come across many instances where the history and origins of certain cocktails are shrouded in mystery. This is not uncommon in the world of mixology, where recipes and techniques are often passed down through generations and stories can become intertwined and altered over time.
It is important to remember that the Last Word cocktail, like many other classic cocktails, has evolved and been adapted by various bartenders throughout history. Different variations and interpretations of the Last Word can be found in cocktail books and menus around the world. This is a testament to the enduring popularity and versatility of this drink.
While Ted Saucier's account in Bottoms Up! attributes the invention of the Last Word to the Detroit Athletic Club and Frank Fogarty, the true origins of this cocktail remain somewhat uncertain. The Last Word has become a beloved classic cocktail, enjoyed by many, and its exact origins may forever remain a mystery.