Neptune’s Wrath Cocktail: A Fiery and Bold Classic
The Neptune’s Wrath cocktail is not for the faint of heart. Created in 2007 by renowned bartender Toby Maloney in one of Chicago’s finest bars, this drink combines bold flavours with a dramatic presentation. Its complex profile, featuring gin, absinthe, and Chartreuse Verte, makes it a standout choice for cocktail enthusiasts looking for a challenge.
This drink is best suited for a bar setting due to its intricate preparation and fiery finish. However, with a little care and precision, it can be crafted at home—just be cautious when handling the final ingredient, as it involves an element of fire. If you’d rather skip the pyrotechnics, you can still enjoy this cocktail with a more subdued presentation.
Neptune’s Wrath Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients:
- 45 ml gin
- 7 ml absinthe
- 20 ml lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 20 ml sugar syrup (simple syrup)
- 7 ml Chartreuse Verte liqueur
- 1 egg white (or 2-3 drops of a foaming agent)
Instructions:
- Dry Shake: Add the gin, absinthe, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and egg white into a cocktail shaker without ice. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds to aerate and emulsify the egg white, creating a rich foam.
- Ice Shake: Add ice cubes to the shaker and shake again for another 15 seconds to chill and properly dilute the drink.
- Strain: Fine strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
- Flaming Chartreuse Finish: Pour the Chartreuse Verte into a separate heatproof shot glass and carefully set it on fire using a long lighter or match.
- Final Touch: Slowly and carefully pour the flaming Chartreuse into the cocktail. The fiery liquid will create a mesmerising effect as it mixes with the foam, adding an aromatic herbal complexity to the drink.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the flames extinguish naturally or blow them out gently before taking a sip.
Tasting Notes
- Aroma: Herbal and citrussy, with the anise-forward scent of absinthe and the botanical complexity of gin and Chartreuse.
- Flavour: A bold balance of botanical freshness, citrus brightness, and rich sweetness, with the warmth of flaming Chartreuse adding depth.
- Texture: Smooth and silky from the egg white foam, creating a luxurious mouthfeel.
Pro Tips for the Best Neptune’s Wrath
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: A well-crafted gin and fresh lemon juice make all the difference in balancing the strong flavours.
- Shake Properly: The dry shake step is crucial for achieving that perfect frothy texture.
- Flaming Safety: When handling flaming Chartreuse, make sure to keep it away from flammable materials and use a long lighter for safety. Always extinguish the flame before drinking.
- For a Simpler Version: If you’d rather skip the fire, simply float the Chartreuse on top instead of igniting it.
A Cocktail with a Mythical Flair
Neptune’s Wrath is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. With its dramatic flaming finish and rich botanical complexity, it’s the kind of cocktail that commands attention and leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re crafting it at a high-end bar or impressing guests at home, this drink embodies boldness, artistry, and a touch of danger—just like the mighty god of the sea himself.
Cheers.