The Ultima Palabra, Spanish for “The Last Word,” is a captivating variation of the classic Last Word cocktail, replacing gin with mezcal for a smoky, modern twist. This equal-parts cocktail, known for its complex and balanced flavor profile, offers a delightful experience for those seeking a drink with depth and distinction. It combines the herbal complexity of green Chartreuse with the smoky nuances of mezcal, creating a unique and invigorating base.
What is the Ultima Palabra Cocktail?
The Ultima Palabra cocktail is a riff on the Last Word, a pre-Prohibition era drink that originated at the Detroit Athletic Club around 1916. The Last Word was rediscovered in the early 2000s and has since become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. The Ultima Palabra was created by Simone De Luca at High Road House Club in London. The Ultima Palabra substitutes mezcal for gin and adds pineapple juice, lending smokiness, sweetness, and a tropical twist to the drink.
Ultima Palabra Cocktail Recipe
Here’s a classic recipe for the Ultima Palabra cocktail:
Ingredients
- 1 ounce mezcal
- 1 ounce green Chartreuse
- 1 ounce Luxardo Maraschino liqueur
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice
- Lime wheel or thyme sprig, for garnish
Instructions
- Add ice to a cocktail shaker.
- Pour in the mezcal, green Chartreuse, Maraschino liqueur, and lime juice.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or thyme sprig.
Variations
Some recipes call for yellow Chartreuse instead of green Chartreuse. Some recipes also call for pineapple juice and chilled water.
Key Ingredients Explained
- Mezcal: This is the defining ingredient of the Ultima Palabra, providing a smoky flavor that distinguishes it from the original Last Word. Opt for a high-quality mezcal that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.
- Green Chartreuse: A French herbal liqueur with a complex, sweet, and spicy flavor. Its unique taste is essential to the Ultima Palabra’s character.
- Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur: A cherry liqueur that adds a touch of sweetness and almond notes, balancing the other ingredients.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice provides the necessary acidity to balance the sweetness and herbal notes, creating a harmonious cocktail.
- Pineapple Juice: Some variations include pineapple juice to add sweetness.
History of the Last Word Cocktail
The Last Word cocktail dates back to the early 20th century, originating at the Detroit Athletic Club. It was reportedly the most expensive cocktail on the menu in 1916, costing 35 cents. The recipe was published in Ted Saucier’s 1951 book “Bottoms Up!” but faded into obscurity after World War II.
In the early 2000s, bartender Murray Stenson rediscovered the recipe and added it to the menu of the Zig Zag Café in Seattle. It quickly gained popularity and helped spark a revival of classic cocktails.
Variations on the Last Word
The Last Word has inspired numerous variations, each with its own unique twist. Some popular variations include:
- Naked and Famous: This variation, created by Joaquín Simó, uses mezcal, yellow Chartreuse, Aperol, and lime juice.
- Final Ward: Created by Phil Ward, this version substitutes rye whiskey and lemon juice for gin and lime.
- Last of the Oaxacans: This variation also uses mezcal instead of gin, highlighting the smoky notes of the spirit.
Maraschino Liqueur in Cocktails
Maraschino liqueur is a key ingredient in many classic cocktails, adding a unique cherry flavor with subtle almond notes. It is made from Marasca cherries, including their pits, which contribute to its distinctive taste. Some other popular cocktails that feature Maraschino liqueur include:
- Aviation
- Martinez
- Hemingway Daiquiri
- Brooklyn
The Allure of the Ultima Palabra
The Ultima Palabra’s enduring appeal lies in its harmonious blend of flavors. The smoky mezcal, herbal Chartreuse, sweet Maraschino liqueur, and tart lime juice create a complex and balanced profile that is both refreshing and intriguing. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail aficionado or a curious newcomer, the Ultima Palabra is sure to impress with its depth, character, and modern twist on a classic.
