Death in the Afternoon Cocktail Recipe

This cocktail first caught our attention because of Ernest Hemingway. He wasn’t just a writer, he was a full-on adventurer who loved a strong drink. He introduced this one in So Red the Nose, a 1935 book filled with cocktail recipes from authors of the time. The name comes from his own book Death in the Afternoon, adding a dramatic twist to the drink’s already mysterious vibe.

What really makes it fun to watch and drink is what happens when you pour it. Absinthe starts out clear, but once the Champagne hits, it clouds up in a process called louching. It’s like a little bit of science and magic in your glass.

We’ll show you how we like to make it, step by step, and share a few modern variations if you’re feeling adventurous. Curious about why the name sounds so intense? We’ll get into that too.

What's in a Death in the Afternoon?

What makes the Death in the Afternoon cocktail so interesting is how simple it is. With just absinthe and Champagne, it still manages to feel a little daring. It’s bold, fancy, and has a bit of an edge. Knowing that Hemingway had a hand in making it popular only makes us love it more.

Ingredients and Substitutions

• Absinthe – Strong and herbal with a licorice note. A little goes a long way, so we keep the pour light. If we’re out, pastis or Pernod can work as easier-to-find substitutes.
• Champagne or Sparkling Wine – Brut Champagne gives the drink a dry, crisp finish. For a more budget-friendly option, Prosecco adds fruitiness and Cava brings a touch of earthiness.
• Simple Syrup (Optional) – Just a dash or half a sugar cube can smooth out the absinthe’s sharp edge. We adjust to taste depending on how bold we want the drink.

Equipment You’ll Need

We keep things simple when making this drink. Here are the tools we reach for:

• Measuring jigger
• Coupe or flute glass
• Bar spoon (optional)
• Zester (optional)
• Tweezers for garnishes (optional)

If you need a solid set of tools, we use the MixMaster Pro Deluxe Stainless Steel Cocktail Set. It has everything we need to mix drinks like a pro at home.

How to Make Death in the Afternoon

This cocktail keeps things simple with just two main ingredients: absinthe and sparkling wine. We usually reach for a dry Champagne, but if Prosecco is what we have, that works too.

Before we pour, we like to chill a coupe or flute glass. It helps keep the drink cold and adds a little extra elegance.

Now for the part that trips people up. Start by pouring the absinthe into the glass first. Then, slowly top it with sparkling wine. Watching it turn cloudy, or “louche,” as it mixes is part of the fun and gives this drink its signature look.

We don’t worry too much about being exact with the ratio. Some of us prefer more bubbles, while others enjoy a stronger absinthe kick. If we’re in the mood for something softer, we keep the absinthe light. Want it bolder? Add a touch more.

Garnish is optional, but we like to add a lemon twist now and then. It brightens the flavor and makes the drink feel a little more polished.

You’ll find exact measurements and a printable version of the steps in the recipe card below.

Tips and Tricks to Make the Best Death in the Afternoon Cocktail

• Chill everything first
  We always make sure our Champagne and glass are nice and cold before we start. It helps the drink stay crisp and refreshing all the way through.
• Pour slowly and gently
  We tilt the glass slightly and pour the Champagne slowly over the absinthe. This helps the absinthe turn cloudy (called louching) and keeps the bubbles lively.
• Measure carefully
  A little absinthe goes a long way. We usually stick to about half a jigger or less. It keeps the flavor balanced without overpowering the drink.

Sip this one nice and slow. It’s bold, full of flavor, and definitely not something to rush.

Recipe Variations and Modern Twists

When we’re in the mood to mix things up, Death in the Afternoon is a fun one to play with. Just a few small changes can give this classic a whole new vibe.

• Adjust the absinthe
  Some of us enjoy that bold herbal flavor and go for a full 1½ oz. Others prefer a lighter pour, using just ¼ or ½ oz. There’s no one-size-fits-all here. We just test until we find what works for us.
• Switch up the bubbles
  We usually go with brut sparkling wine for a dry, clean finish that lets the absinthe stand out. If we want something a little softer or slightly sweeter, a different sparkling wine can change the feel entirely.
• Add sweetness or extra flavor
  A sugar cube can smooth out the edges if the absinthe feels too sharp. A few dashes of flavored bitters also add a nice layer of depth and aroma.
• Try different garnishes
  When we want to dress it up, we go with a lemon twist, a few edible gold flakes, or some rose petals. It’s an easy way to make the drink feel a little more special.
• Swap the spirit
  If absinthe feels too intense, we like using pastis or Pernod instead. They keep the herbal vibe but are a bit softer and easier to sip.

More Absinthe Cocktails to Try

If you enjoy Death in the Afternoon, you’ll probably like a few more absinthe cocktails too. Here are some we love mixing at home:

• Sazerac
• Corpse Reviver No. 2
• Absinthe Frappe
• Monkey Gland
• La Louisiane

Want more ideas? Check out our full list of the best absinthe cocktails for fresh inspiration and new recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions