Name: Jabberwocky
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 ounce London dry gin; 1 ounce fino sherry; 1 ounce Cocchi Americano; ⅛ teaspoon lemon or grapefruit bitters; Lemon twist for garnishing

Why This Recipe Works

This drink can be called either the Jabberwocky or Jabberwock. Both names are inspired by the 1871 Lewis Carroll poem—the poem itself or the iconic character therein. The cocktail first appeared in Harry Craddock’s 1930 book The Savoy Cocktail Book, and it even calls out some of the iconic nonsensical words in Carroll’s poem. Craddock’s recipe includes a product called Caperitif. This is what some call a “ghost ingredient”—one that may show up in an old cocktail book but is not available today. Caperitif was an aperitif-style wine made near Cape Town, South Africa. Most agree that this was a fortified wine in the style of Cocchi Americano or Lillet Blanc; just about everyone agrees that it hasn’t been available since the mid-20th century.

Before You Begin

Lillet Blanc or vermouth bianco (also sometimes labeled blanc or blanco) can be used in place of the Cocchi Americano.

Instructions

Add 1 ounce London dry gin, 1 ounce fino sherry, 1 ounce Cocchi Americano, and ⅛ teaspoon lemon or grapefruit bitters to mixing glass, then fill three-quarters full with ice. Using bar spoon, stir until mixture is fully combined and well chilled, about 1 minute. Strain cocktail into chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with lemon twist and serve.