Craft the Perfect Tuxedo No. 2 Cocktail
About This Project
This video demonstrates how to make a Tuxedo No. 2 cocktail. First, a coupe glass is chilled. Then, gin, dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, absinthe, and orange bitters are added to a mixing glass filled with ice. The mixture is stirred for 20-30 seconds until well-chilled and then strained into the chilled coupe glass. Finally, the drink is garnished with a lemon twist.
Best for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts.
Tools & Materials
Mixing Glass "The Flagship" - BIC Originals
Japanese-Style Jigger
Gin
Cocktail Bitters Sampler Kit
Sambuca
Absinthe
Mixing Glass "The Flagship" - BIC Originals
<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []" class="">Martinis, Negronis and Old Fashioneds have met their match with our Mixing Glass.</p> <p data-pm-slice="0 0 []" class="">Whether you’re taking on the high volume of a busy restaurant, or entertaining guests on your kitchen counter, our mixing glass can handle the job!</p> <p class="">This glass was built with beauty and functionality in mind. Thanks to the glass we use and how we treat that glass (a long and slow annealing process), it’s one of the most durable glasses on the market. It can handle a physical beating, as well as drastic temperature changes, without missing a beat. This is probably the most DISHWASHER SAFE mixing glass on the market.</p> <p class="">Plus, like any quality mixing vessel, it's seamless, so you can stir your drink without getting caught on the inside. Or even worse, it won't pop in half during your cocktail party or mid-service behind the bar.</p> <p class="">Liquid capacity is 21 oz / 620ml (with some slight variation). Works with a standard julep strainer or a Hawthorne strainer (we personally recommend our <a href="/products/hawthorne-strainer" target="_blank">Bull in China Hawthorne Straine</a>r, but we’re a little biased).</p>
Japanese-Style Jigger
<p class="" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Elegant design and a bartender favorite, this Japanese-style jigger measures 1 oz and 2 oz pours.</p> <p class="" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our version comes in seven finishes: Silver, Copper, Gold, Gunmetal Black, Matte Black, Antique Brass, and Rainbow Chrome.</p> <p class="" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Each one has internal measures (.25, .5oz and .75oz on the 1oz side; 1.5oz on the 2oz side). THAT'S RIGHT! We have a 1/4 oz line!</p> <p style="white-space: pre-wrap;" class=""> <strong>While our silver version is perfectly dishwasher safe, we recommend handwashing any of the other finishes to prolong the life of those coatings.</strong></p>
Gin
gin
Cocktail Bitters Sampler Kit
<meta charset="utf-8"><span data-mce-fragment="1">Whether you just can’t decide what flavor to take home or are looking for the perfect gift for the cocktail lover in your life, our sampler sets are a great introduction to The Bitter Housewife line of craft cocktail bitters.</span><br data-mce-fragment="1"><br data-mce-fragment="1"><b data-mce-fragment="1">Sampler Set #1</b><span data-mce-fragment="1"> features our most classic bitters that generally pair best with dark, aged, or smoky spirits like Bourbon, Whiskey, Scotch, Aged Rum, and Mezcal. They’ll bring new life to classic cocktails and take modern drinks to new levels. Includes Barrel Aged Bitters, Aromatic Bitters, and Orange Bitters.</span><br data-mce-fragment="1"><br data-mce-fragment="1"><b data-mce-fragment="1">Sampler Set #2</b><span data-mce-fragment="1"> features our bright, modern bitters flavors that go best with lighter spirits like Vodka, Gin, Tequila, and Rum. They’ll also perk up a wine spritzer and take your aperitivi to the next level. Includes Grapefruit Bitters, Cardamom Bitters, and Lime Coriander Bitters.</span>
Sambuca
sambuca
Absinthe
absinthe
Steps
Common Problems
Cloudy cocktails with unwanted debris.
Solution: Double straining removes ice chips and small pieces of fruit or herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need the exact bar tools listed, like a Japanese-Style Jigger or specific mixing glass, to make the Tuxedo No. 2?
While professional tools ensure precision and style, you can use household alternatives for your first few attempts. A standard measuring spoon set works for the jigger, and any sturdy glass can serve as a mixing glass. However, a barspoon and strainer are highly recommended for proper chilling and a smooth pour.
Are there any acceptable substitutions for the ingredients in the Tuxedo No. 2, particularly if I don't have absinthe or maraschino liqueur?
The unique flavor profile of the Tuxedo No. 2 relies on its specific ingredients, so direct substitutions can alter the drink significantly. Absinthe provides an anise note and a rinse is traditional; you could try a small dash of an anise-flavored liqueur like pastis as a very last resort, but it won't be the same. Maraschino liqueur is key for its cherry and almond notes and is harder to replace without changing the drink entirely.
How crucial is the 20-30 second stirring time, and what are the signs that my cocktail is perfectly chilled and diluted?
Stirring for 20-30 seconds is a guideline for optimal chilling and dilution, which balances the drink's strength and flavor. You'll know it's ready when the mixing glass is thoroughly frosted on the outside. Under-stirring leaves it warm and too strong, while over-stirring can over-dilute and water down the nuanced flavors.
What's the best technique to create a beautiful lemon twist for garnishing the Tuxedo No. 2, and why is it important?
To make a lemon twist, use a sharp vegetable peeler or a channel knife to remove a strip of zest from a fresh lemon, avoiding the bitter white pith. Gently twist the strip over the drink to express its aromatic oils, then drop it in or drape it over the rim. The lemon twist adds essential citrus aroma and visual appeal, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
Why is chilling the coupe glass so important for this cocktail, and what's the most effective way to do it?
Chilling the coupe glass prevents the cocktail from warming up too quickly upon contact, preserving its perfectly chilled temperature and preventing excessive dilution. The most effective method is to fill the glass with ice and a splash of water while you prepare the drink, then discard the ice and water just before straining.
As a beginner, what's the most common mistake I should watch out for when making the Tuxedo No. 2, and how can I avoid it?
For beginners, a common mistake is neglecting proper dilution through stirring, or using insufficient ice. Always use fresh, good quality ice, and stir until the mixing glass is frosted, ensuring the drink is perfectly chilled and balanced. Another error is over-pouring ingredients, so using a jigger for precise measurements is crucial.
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