Penultimate Word

(1 ratings)

A bitter-sweet Aperol based riff on the classic Last Word cocktail with citrus and cherry notes.

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Recipe

1 cocktail (125ml)

London Dry Gin
30 ml
Maraschino Liqueur
20 ml
Aperol
20 ml
Lemon Juice
15 ml
Orange Peel
1 twist

Recipe credit: Adapted from recipe by Matthew Hupert, name by Dan Chadwick

Instructions

3 minutes to make

Step

Chill the coupe glass by placing it in the freezer for 3-5 minutes or filling with ice water

Step

Add gin, maraschino liqueur, Aperol and fresh lemon juice to a cocktail shaker

Step

Fill the shaker halfway with ice and shake vigorously for 30 seconds until well-chilled

Step

Empty the chilled coupe glass and double strain the cocktail into it

Step

Garnish with an orange peel twist if desired and serve immediately

Equipment

Shaker

Jigger

Fine Mesh Strainer

Citrus juicer

Description

The Penultimate Word is a modern twist on the legendary Last Word cocktail, offering a striking balance of bitter-sweet complexity and bright citrus notes. At its heart lies London Dry Gin, providing crisp, juniper-driven depth. Maraschino liqueur adds delicate cherry and almond nuances, while Aperol lends its signature bittersweet orange character and a warm, sunset hue. A touch of fresh lemon juice sharpens and lifts the flavors, creating a refreshing counterpoint.

Served in a chilled cocktail glass and finished with a fragrant orange peel twist, this drink unfolds in layers: first the bright aroma of citrus oils, then the bittersweet dance of Aperol and lemon, and finally a smooth, lingering finish of cherry and botanicals. With a moderate 125 ml serving, it’s a refined aperitif that works beautifully as a pre-dinner drink or an elegant nightcap.

Created as a modern variation of the classic Last Word, the Penultimate Word respects the original’s equal-part structure but introduces a lighter, fruitier dimension. It’s perfect for adventurous cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate a creative riff on timeless recipes.

Nutritional information

1 cocktail (125ml)

Calories

185

ABV

22 %

Alcohol

22 g

Carbs

12 g

Carbs from Sugar

11 g

Fat

0 g

Protein

0.1 g

Sodium

2 mg

Nutritional information is approximate and includes estimated 30% dilution from ice. Values may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.

Tips & Notes

Use precise measurements with a jigger as the balance is crucial - even small variations can significantly impact the final taste
Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice squeezed within the hour for the brightest, most vibrant flavor profile
Chill the coupe glass properly to maintain the cocktail's temperature and enhance the drinking experience

Can I substitute another liqueur for maraschino?

While maraschino liqueur is essential for the authentic Penultimate Word flavor, you could experiment with other cherry liqueurs, though the taste will differ significantly. Luxardo Maraschino is highly recommended for its unique cherry-almond flavor profile.

How does this differ from the original Last Word cocktail?

The Penultimate Word swaps out two of the Last Word’s defining elements and that’s what changes the whole mood of the drink. Where the classic relies on Green Chartreuse for a deep, high-proof herbal punch, this riff uses Aperol instead, bringing a softer bitterness and sunny orange notes. It also calls for lemon juice in place of lime, so the acidity is rounder and a touch sweeter. Gin and maraschino liqueur remain, but the overall impression is brighter, fruitier, and a little lighter in alcohol than the sharp, intensely herbal original.

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?

This cocktail is best served fresh due to the fresh lemon juice. However, you can pre-batch the other ingredients and add lemon juice just before serving. Store pre-batched mixture in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.