Italian Monk (Last Word Edition)
A rich, velvety equal-parts riff on the Last Word, balancing the honeyed baking spice of Bénédictine with the botanical bite of gin and bright lime.
Ingredients
- 0.75 oz Gin
- 0.75 oz Bénédictine
- 0.75 oz Maraschino liqueur — Luxardo
- 0.75 oz Fresh lime juice
Story
This recipe was the result of wanting a Last Word-style drink that felt heavier and more autumnal. We initially discussed using Green Chartreuse, but pivoted to Bénédictine to bring in those honey and baking-spice notes. The name “Italian Monk” pays homage to the monastic origins of the liqueur while acknowledging the bright citrus structure.
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously until very cold.
- Fine strain into a chilled coupe.
- Garnish with a single brandied cherry at the bottom of the glass.
Notes
- Freshly squeezed lime is non-negotiable — the richness of Bénédictine requires a sharp acid backbone to keep the drink from going cloying.