We’ve always been captivated by Death & Co, the iconic New York cocktail bar that’s revolutionized mixology since 2007. Their recipes fuse timeless spirits with bold flavors, offering drinks that elevate any gathering and showcase cocktail artistry at its finest.
In our exploration, we’ll share a few standout recipes from their repertoire, drawing on expert techniques to help you craft these sophisticated libations right in your kitchen. It’s our go-to for impressing friends with professional-quality cocktails.
Death And Co Cocktail Recipes
We delve into the world of Death & Co cocktail recipes, drawing from the bar’s legacy of innovative mixology since 2007. These recipes blend classic spirits with bold flavors, allowing us to recreate professional-grade cocktails at home. Let’s explore a standout recipe: The Last Word, a balanced Prohibition-era favorite that showcases Death & Co’s precision.
Ingredients for The Last Word
To craft this cocktail, we gather the following ingredients in the order they are used. Prepare fresh components ahead for optimal flavor.
- 3/4 oz Gin: Use a high-quality London dry gin for its juniper notes.
- 3/4 oz Green Chartreuse: This herbal liqueur adds a complex, aromatic depth.
- 3/4 oz Maraschino liqueur: Opt for a premium brand to highlight its sweet, nutty profile.
- 3/4 oz Fresh lime juice: Squeeze from ripe limes just before mixing for a vibrant, tangy kick.
Instructions for The Last Word
We guide you through each step with clear, active techniques to ensure a flawless cocktail. Shake vigorously to blend flavors and chill the drink effectively.
- Combine ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the 3/4 oz gin, 3/4 oz Green Chartreuse, 3/4 oz Maraschino liqueur, and 3/4 oz fresh lime juice to create a harmonious base.
- Add ice and shake: Fill the shaker with ice cubes, then seal and shake for 10-15 seconds until the mixture feels frosty and the shaker is coated in condensation, releasing the liqueurs’ aromatic essences.
- Strain and serve: Fine-strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass to remove any pulp or ice shards, resulting in a smooth, crystal-clear pour that highlights the drink’s emerald hue and invigorating herbal scent.
- Garnish: Finish with a twist of lime peel, expressing the oils over the surface to enhance the citrus aroma and add a visual flourish.
For variations, we suggest experimenting with ingredients while maintaining balance—swap gin for a floral alternative like Plymouth gin for a softer twist, or adjust lime juice for tartness.
Tips and Techniques from Death & Co
Drawing from our expertise in mixology, we share key tips to elevate your home bar game. Use the table below to compare essential tools and their impact on cocktail quality, based on standard practices.
| Tool | Purpose | Impact on Cocktail |
|---|---|---|
| Cocktail Shaker | Blends and chills ingredients | Ensures even integration of flavors and textures |
| Fine Strainer | Removes solids | Creates a polished, professional finish |
| Jigger | Measures precise volumes | Maintains recipe accuracy for consistent results |
These Death & Co cocktail recipes empower us to master mixology with confidence, impressing guests with drinks that echo the bar’s innovative spirit.
Ingredients
We carefully curate these ingredient lists from Death & Co’s innovative cocktail recipes to ensure you craft bar-quality drinks at home. Our focus here is on precise measurements and premium spirits that capture the essence of classic mixology.
For The Classic Martini
To recreate this timeless Death & Co favorite, we start with the core components that highlight its elegant simplicity. Gather these ingredients in the order they are used, emphasizing high-quality spirits for the best flavor profile:
- 2 ounces gin: Use a premium London dry gin like Beefeater for its botanical depth.
- 1 ounce dry vermouth: Opt for a crisp, high-quality vermouth such as Dolin for balance.
- Lemon twist or olives: Prepare a fresh lemon twist by peeling a strip of zest from an organic lemon, or use pitted green olives for garnish.
- Ice: Fill your mixing glass with fresh ice cubes to chill and dilute the cocktail properly.
For The Improved Whiskey Cocktail
- 2 ounces rye whiskey: Select a robust rye whiskey like Rittenhouse for its spicy notes.
- ½ ounce simple syrup: Make your own by dissolving equal parts sugar and water, ensuring it’s freshly prepared for optimal sweetness.
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters: These add depth; we recommend Angostura bitters for their classic aromatic profile.
- 1 dash absinthe: Use a light rinse of high-quality absinthe like St. George to coat the glass and impart a subtle anise flavor.
- Lemon twist: Finish with a fresh lemon twist, twisted over the drink to release its oils for added zest.
Tools And Equipment
To elevate our homemade renditions of Death & Co’s iconic cocktails like The Last Word, The Classic Martini, and The Improved Whiskey Cocktail, we rely on the right tools and equipment. These essentials ensure precision, consistency, and that professional flair that makes each drink shine. Drawing from the bar’s expert techniques, let’s dive into the must-have items that help us craft balanced, flavorful cocktails with ease.
Essential Tools for Precision Mixing
In our experience, the cornerstone of mixology lies in tools that allow for accurate measurements and proper agitation. Here’s a curated list of key equipment, ordered by their typical use in cocktail preparation:
- Jigger: We start with a jigger for precise liquid measurements, ensuring every pour of gin, vermouth, or whiskey is exact. Opt for a double-sided model with 1-ounce and 1.5-ounce sides to match Death & Co’s emphasis on balanced recipes.
- Cocktail Shaker: For shaken drinks like The Last Word, a Boston shaker (with a metal tin and glass) delivers the chill and dilution needed for that silky texture. We recommend stainless steel for durability and ease of cleaning.
- Mixing Glass: Ideal for stirred cocktails such as The Classic Martini, this tool allows us to gently combine ingredients without over-diluting. Choose a 16- to 20-ounce glass with a thick base for stability during stirring.
- Bar Spoon: A long, twisted bar spoon is crucial for stirring and layering in drinks like The Improved Whiskey Cocktail. Its length helps us reach the bottom of tall glasses, promoting even distribution of flavors.
- Fine Strainer: To achieve the crystal-clear finish that Death & Co is known for, we use a Hawthorne strainer for shaking and a julep strainer for stirring. This duo catches ice shards and pulp, resulting in a smooth, professional pour.
- Channel Knife or Peeler: For garnishes in The Classic Martini, a peeler creates perfect lemon twists with minimal waste. We favor a Y-shaped model for its control and efficiency.
Why These Tools Matter: A Quick Comparison
Selecting high-quality tools isn’t just about functionality—it’s about enhancing the sensory experience of cocktail-making. Below, we compare key attributes to help you choose wisely:
| Tool | Primary Use | Key Benefit | Recommended Material | Approximate Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jigger | Measuring liquids | Ensures accuracy to 0.5 oz | Stainless steel | $5–15 |
| Cocktail Shaker | Shaking and chilling | Creates aeration and chill | Stainless steel or glass | $10–30 |
| Mixing Glass | Stirring cold ingredients | Maintains clarity and control | Borosilicate glass | $15–25 |
| Bar Spoon | Stirring and layering | Provides gentle agitation | Stainless steel | $8–20 |
| Fine Strainer | Filtering post-mix | Removes impurities for polish | Stainless steel mesh | $5–15 |
| Channel Knife | Garnishing | Delivers precise cuts | Stainless steel or ceramic | $10–20 |
By incorporating these tools into our routine, we replicate the innovative spirit of Death & Co, turning everyday ingredients into extraordinary cocktails. Remember, investing in quality equipment not only streamlines the process but also amplifies the flavors and presentation in every glass.
Step-By-Step Instructions
We guide you through crafting Death & Co’s signature cocktails like The Last Word, The Classic Martini, and The Improved Whiskey Cocktail with precision and ease ensuring professional results at home.
Preparing The Ingredients
Before mixing, we gather and prepare our ingredients to ensure optimal flavors and balance in each cocktail. Start with The Last Word: Measure 2 ounces of gin, 0.75 ounces of green Chartreuse, 0.75 ounces of maraschino liqueur, and 0.75 ounces of fresh lime juice. For The Classic Martini, select 2.5 ounces of premium London dry gin and 0.5 ounces of high-quality dry vermouth plus a garnish such as a lemon twist or olive. Lastly, for The Improved Whiskey Cocktail, combine 2 ounces of robust rye whiskey, 0.5 ounces of homemade simple syrup, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, and a light rinse of absinthe.
To prepare, we juice limes by hand for The Last Word to capture their bright citrus aroma. Chill all spirits in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the cocktail’s crisp texture. Use a jigger for accurate measurements as outlined below to avoid inconsistencies.
| Cocktail | Ingredient 1 | Measurement | Ingredient 2 | Measurement | Ingredient 3 | Measurement | Ingredient 4 | Measurement |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Last Word | Gin | 2 ounces | Green Chartreuse | 0.75 ounces | Maraschino liqueur | 0.75 ounces | Fresh lime juice | 0.75 ounces |
| The Classic Martini | London dry gin | 2.5 ounces | Dry vermouth | 0.5 ounces | – | – | Lemon twist or olive | As needed |
| The Improved Whiskey Cocktail | Rye whiskey | 2 ounces | Simple syrup | 0.5 ounces | Angostura bitters | 2 dashes | Absinthe (for rinse) | Light rinse |
Mixing And Shaking
We now mix and shake our cocktails to blend flavors and achieve the perfect chill drawing from Death & Co’s expert techniques. For The Last Word, add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice then shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the mixture feels ice-cold and frosty signaling full integration of the herbal and citrus notes.
For The Classic Martini, stir the ingredients in a mixing glass with ice for 30 seconds to maintain its silky smooth texture without dilution from shaking. With The Improved Whiskey Cocktail, rinse a mixing glass with absinthe first then add the whiskey, simple syrup, and bitters before stirring gently for 20 seconds to layer the spicy rye with subtle sweetness. This step ensures each cocktail develops a velvety mouthfeel and aromatic depth that elevates the drinking experience.
Straining And Serving
We strain and serve our cocktails to deliver a polished finish and preserve their vibrant flavors as perfected by Death & Co. For The Last Word, double-strain the shaken mixture into a chilled coupe glass using a fine strainer to remove any ice shards creating a crystal-clear presentation with a refreshing lime zest aroma.
Pour The Classic Martini through a strainer into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a twist of lemon for a clean elegant look. For The Improved Whiskey Cocktail, strain into an old-fashioned glass over a large ice cube and express an orange peel over the top to release its oils enhancing the whiskey’s warm spicy finish. Serve immediately to savor the cocktails’ full sensory appeal from their chilled temperature to intricate flavor profiles.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To help us streamline our cocktail preparation and capture the precision of Death & Co’s techniques, we recommend making certain elements ahead of time. This approach not only saves time during gatherings but also ensures flavors develop fully and ingredients are perfectly chilled. Below, we break down make-ahead strategies for the featured cocktails—The Last Word, The Classic Martini, and The Improved Whiskey Cocktail—focusing on key components like syrups, juices, and infusions.
Preparing Base Ingredients
We often prepare foundational ingredients in advance to maintain the balance and vibrancy that Death & Co emphasizes. Here’s how:
- Simple Syrup: For cocktails like The Improved Whiskey Cocktail, we make a batch of simple syrup up to one week ahead. Combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water in a saucepan, heat over medium until dissolved, then cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Fresh Citrus Juice: In The Last Word, lime juice plays a starring role. We juice limes (about 8 medium limes for 1 cup of juice) a day ahead, strain out pulp for clarity, and keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge to preserve its bright, tangy flavor.
- Infusions and Bitters: For The Improved Whiskey Cocktail, we prepare a light absinthe rinse by diluting 1 ounce of absinthe with water and storing it in a dropper bottle. This can be made up to two weeks ahead, allowing the subtle herbal notes to mellow.
Chilling and Storing Spirits
Chilling spirits and mixers in advance enhances the smooth, professional finish that Death & Co cocktails are known for. We advise the following:
- Refrigerate Key Spirits: For The Classic Martini, we chill premium London dry gin and dry vermouth in the freezer for at least 2 hours before serving. This step ensures a crisp, icy texture without dilution.
- Pre-Batch Mixers: If we’re planning multiple servings, we combine non-perishable elements like vermouth and bitters in a mixing glass, covered and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Remember to stir gently upon use to avoid over-oxidation.
Make-Ahead Garnishes and Tools
Garnishes add the final sensory touch, and having them ready elevates our home bar experience. Here’s our approach:
- Garnish Preparation: For The Last Word or The Classic Martini, we prepare garnishes like lemon twists or olives a few hours ahead. Use a channel knife to create twists from 2 lemons, then store them in ice water in the fridge to keep them fresh and aromatic.
- Tool Readiness: We set up our bar tools the night before, such as chilling the cocktail shaker in the freezer and calibrating the jigger for accurate 0.5-ounce or 1-ounce pours. This ensures we’re ready for seamless shaking and straining.
Storage Guidelines
To maintain quality, we track storage times and conditions for make-ahead elements. Here’s a quick reference in table form:
| Make-Ahead Element | Recommended Storage Method | Duration | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Syrup | Airtight container in refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Check for mold; discard if cloudy |
| Fresh Citrus Juice | Sealed jar in refrigerator | Up to 2 days | Strain twice for clarity |
| Infused Mixtures (e.g., Absinthe Rinse) | Dropper bottle in refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | Shake before use to blend flavors |
| Chilled Spirits | Original bottle in freezer | Indefinite (if unopened), up to 1 month (opened) | Prevents dilution during mixing |
| Garnishes (e.g., Lemon Twists) | Ice water in refrigerator | Up to 4 hours | Keeps them plump and oil-rich |
By incorporating these make-ahead tactics, we empower ourselves to deliver Death & Co-level cocktails with confidence and ease, focusing on flavor precision and presentation when it matters most.
Variations And Tips
As we explore Death & Co’s cocktail masterpieces, let’s dive into creative variations and essential tips to elevate your home mixology game. These adaptations allow you to personalize the Last Word, Classic Martini, and Improved Whiskey Cocktail while maintaining their signature balance and flair.
Variations on Popular Cocktails
Building on the recipes we’ve shared, experimenting with variations can refresh these classics for different tastes or occasions. Below, we outline key modifications, ordered by the cocktails’ preparation sequence, to inspire your creativity without straying from Death & Co’s precision.
- For the Last Word: Swap the traditional green Chartreuse for yellow Chartreuse to create a milder, honeyed version that highlights citrus notes. For a non-alcoholic twist, replace gin with seedlip non-alcoholic spirit and reduce the liqueur to maintain balance. If you’re aiming for a seasonal spin, incorporate fresh muddled herbs like basil in summer or rosemary in winter to add aromatic depth.
- For the Classic Martini: Opt for a vodka-based variation by substituting the London dry gin with premium vodka for a smoother profile. Experiment with fortified wines like bianco vermouth instead of dry for a sweeter rendition, or add a dash of orgeat syrup for a nutty, Tiki-inspired twist. To accommodate dietary preferences, use gluten-free gin options to keep the cocktail inclusive.
- For the Improved Whiskey Cocktail: Enhance the rye whiskey with bourbon for a richer, caramel-forward flavor that softens the spice. Introduce alternative bitters such as orange bitters to complement the absinthe rinse, or incorporate fruit infusions like cherry for a fruitier profile. For a lower-ABV option, dilute with sparkling water post-mixing to create a refreshing highball variation.
To compare the impact of these variations on key attributes like flavor intensity and alcohol content, refer to the table below:
| Cocktail Variation | Flavor Profile Change | Alcohol Content (ABV Estimate) | Best Occasion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Last Word with Yellow Chartreuse | Milder, sweeter, more citrusy | 25-30% (reduced from original) | Casual dinners or spring events |
| Classic Martini with Vodka | Smoother, less botanical | 20-25% (similar to original) | Elegant evenings or solo sips |
| Improved Whiskey with Bourbon | Richer, caramel notes dominate | 35-40% (slightly higher) | Fall gatherings or whiskey nights |
Expert Tips for Perfect Cocktails
To ensure your Death & Co-inspired creations shine, we recommend these practical tips based on our years of mixology experience. Focus on technique and ingredients to avoid common pitfalls and achieve professional results.
- Technique Mastery: Always stir cocktails like the Classic Martini to preserve clarity, while shake the Last Word vigorously for 10-15 seconds to aerate and chill effectively. Chill your mixing glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes before use to enhance the final temperature and prevent dilution.
- Ingredient Selection: Prioritize high-quality spirits—opt for small-batch rye in the Improved Whiskey Cocktail to amplify depth. Freshly squeeze citrus just before mixing to capture vibrant aromas, and taste-test bitters for balance, as a single dash can transform the overall harmony.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t overpour; use a jigger for precise measurements to prevent overpowering flavors. Allow infusions or simple syrups to rest for 24 hours in advance for optimal integration, and always strain twice for a crystal-clear finish, especially in the Martini.
- Presentation and Storage: Garnish with fresh twists to release essential oils, elevating the drinking experience. For make-ahead batches, store components in airtight containers; refer back to our earlier storage guidelines to maintain freshness for up to 48 hours.
By incorporating these variations and tips, we empower you to innovate with confidence, just as Death & Co does in their celebrated bar.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing Death & Co’s innovative spirit with you, showing how their recipes can elevate your home bar.
Now it’s your turn to experiment and craft cocktails that wow your guests, blending precision with creativity.
By mastering these techniques, we’re confident you’ll create memorable moments, just like the pros at Death & Co.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Death & Co and its impact on mixology?
Death & Co is a renowned New York cocktail bar that opened in 2007, revolutionizing the mixology scene with innovative recipes blending classic spirits and modern flavors. It focuses on precision and quality, offering exceptional cocktails that inspire home bartenders to create professional-level drinks.
How do I make The Last Word cocktail at home?
To make The Last Word, combine 3/4 oz gin, 3/4 oz green Chartreuse, 3/4 oz lime juice, and 3/4 oz maraschino liqueur in a shaker with ice. Shake well for 10-15 seconds, then strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lime twist. Use fresh ingredients and a quality shaker for the best balance, just like Death & Co’s Prohibition-era favorite.
What ingredients are needed for a Classic Martini?
For a Classic Martini, you’ll need 2 1/2 oz premium London dry gin, 1/2 oz high-quality dry vermouth, and garnishes like a lemon twist or olives. Mix in a stirring glass with ice, stir until chilled, then strain into a martini glass. Fresh, high-quality components ensure a crisp, elegant drink as highlighted in the article.
What essential tools do I need for home cocktail making?
Key tools include a jigger for accurate measurements, a cocktail shaker for mixing and chilling, a mixing glass for stirred drinks, a bar spoon for gentle stirring, a fine strainer for smooth pours, and a channel knife for garnishes. Investing in these ensures precision and enhances your home mixology experience, as recommended by Death & Co experts.
How can I prepare cocktail ingredients in advance?
Prepare simple syrup, fresh citrus juice, and infused mixtures a day ahead to let flavors develop. Chill spirits and mixers in the fridge, and pre-cut garnishes for easy access. Use a storage guide to maintain quality—store syrups in airtight containers for up to a week. This streamlines your setup for seamless, professional results at home.
Can I customize classic cocktails like The Last Word or Martini?
Yes, you can adapt recipes while keeping balance intact. For The Last Word, try yellow Chartreuse for a milder version. In a Classic Martini, swap gin for vodka for a smoother profile. Experiment with the Improved Whiskey Cocktail by adjusting bitters. Focus on quality ingredients and techniques to avoid common pitfalls and innovate confidently.
What tips help achieve professional-quality cocktails at home?
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients and precise measurements with a jigger. Master shaking and stirring techniques for the perfect chill, and always strain for a clean finish. Avoid over-diluting or using subpar spirits. Presentation matters—add thoughtful garnishes and serve in the right glass to elevate the experience, echoing Death & Co’s expertise.