Adonis

The story

The Adonis cocktail originated in the late 19th century, named after a Broadway musical of the same name. It gained popularity in the early 20th century, particularly in speakeasies during Prohibition. Its blend of sherry and vermouth offers a unique alternative to gin or whiskey-based cocktails, appealing to those seeking a lighter drink. The cocktail's enduring presence is attributed to its balance of flavors and versatility.

How it tastes

The Adonis presents a rich, nutty flavor from the Oloroso sherry, complemented by the sweetness of the Martini Rosso vermouth and a hint of bitterness from the orange bitters. It is best served as an aperitif before dinner or during cocktail hour.

Getting it right

Proper stirring is crucial to achieving the right dilution and chill for the Adonis. Use a mixing glass and plenty of ice, stirring gently but thoroughly to combine the ingredients without over-diluting. Strain into a chilled coupe glass to maintain the cocktail's integrity.

Variations

• Adonis Royale — Substitutes sparkling wine for the sweet vermouth, adding effervescence to the classic recipe.
• Savoy Adonis — Uses dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth, resulting in a drier and more herbal profile.

Substitutions

• Oloroso sherry — Try Amontillado sherry for a slightly drier and nuttier flavor.
• Martini Rosso — Use any quality sweet vermouth, such as Carpano Antica, for a similar sweetness.

Questions

What glass should I use for an Adonis?

The Adonis is traditionally served in a coupe glass, which enhances its presentation and allows for easy sipping.

Can I make an Adonis ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can batch the ingredients in advance and stir just before serving to maintain optimal flavor and chill.

What occasion is best for serving an Adonis?

The Adonis is ideal as an aperitif before dinner or during a cocktail party, thanks to its balanced and approachable flavor profile.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026