A tuxedo martini is a fabulous martini well-suited to a black tie dinner on the town. This cocktail is similar to the famous imperial cocktail, which is a cocktail made with gin, scotch and dry vermouth and maraschino added. A hint of anise liqueur adds a bit of a twist to the recipe. Known as a classic cocktail for dinner, the tuxedo offers an array of flavors, though the additions are minimal. It is crucial to note that maraschino and anise liqueurs are measured by the teaspoon and not by the ounce. To ensure that the balance of the drink is maintained, use a gentle touch when pouring, since too much of either ingredient (especially the anise) can cause it to become erratic.
Tips
Choose a gin that is of a high caliber for the tuxedo, just as you would with any martini. In order to create an impressive tasting cocktail, it is preferable to use something like a traditional dry gin. If you are going to drink vermouth, the main factor is freshness. In contrast to liquor, fortified wines have a short shelf life, and they should be enjoyed within three months of opening. As for the maraschino, it cannot be substituted here, since it has a drier flavor profile than other cherry liqueurs, and other sweets will not produce the taste of the drink. You can use absinthe instead of anisette. There are some anise-flavored liqueurs that are more successful than others, and this will largely depend on which brand of gin you use. Even though the bitters are not specified, we can probably assume that aromatic bitters (for example, Angostura) were the original choice for tuxedos.
