A Whiskey Closer — The Final Rye
Closing is important in things such as real estate (remember “ABC” from the play and film Glengarry Glen Ross — always be closing) and baseball (relief pitchers can make or break a game). The same goes for cocktails. The Final Rye is a variation on the classic alcohol forward Last Word. Thanks to Edgar’s Proof & Provision in the DeSoto Hotel in Savannah, Georgia for introducing me to this drink.
The Final Rye
.75 ounces rye
.75 ounces green Chartreuse
.75 ounces Luxardo maraschino liqueur
Juice from 1/2 lime
Combine in a shaker with ice, shake with the icy ferocity of Alec Baldwin in the movie version of Glengarry Glen Ross, and strain into a chilled glass. Lime garnish optional.
The Final Rye simply substitutes rye for the gin in the Last Word. The other ingredients and proportions are the same. This drink is very good, and it’s perfect if you have a visceral aversion to gin (I encourage you to try the original anyway). Either one is a great combination of strength, sharpness, and sweetness.
So whether you plan to shut ’em out or seal the deal, the Final Rye is for you.