Scotch Cocktails: A Journey Through Time and Taste

Scotch cocktails are a testament to the versatility of this noble spirit. From the 19th-century Morning Glory Fizz to the modern Penicillin, these drinks challenge the notion that scotch should only be enjoyed neat. This article explores five exceptional scotch cocktails, spanning different eras and styles.

We’ll delve into the classic Affinity and Bobby Burns, the revolutionary Penicillin, and an original creation, the Tartan Cocktail. Whether you’re a scotch purist or a curious cocktail enthusiast, these recipes will expand your appreciation for the diverse world of scotch-based mixed drinks

The Evolution of Scotch in Mixed Drinks

Before we begin our cocktail adventure, it’s essential to understand the history and versatility of scotch in mixed drinks. Scotch whisky, whether blended or single malt, has been a staple in cocktails for over a century. From the classic Rob Roy to the modern Penicillin, scotch has proven its worth as a versatile base spirit.

• Blended Scotch: Often used in classic cocktails due to its balanced flavour profile
• Single Malt Scotch: Increasingly popular in modern cocktails for its distinctive character
• Islay Single Malt: Prized for its smoky notes in contemporary creations

Now, let’s embark on our chronological journey through five exceptional scotch cocktails, spanning from the late 1800s to the present day.

1. The Morning Glory Fizz: A Hangover Cure from the 19th Century

What Makes This It a Historical Gem?

The Morning Glory Fizz dates back to the late 1800s and was created as a hangover cure. Despite its potent ingredients, this cocktail is surprisingly refreshing and palatable.

To create this historical gem, you’ll need:

• 2 oz scotch (I recommend a Lowland scotch like Auchentoshan)
• 3/4 oz semi-rich simple syrup (1.5 parts sugar to 1 part water)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 bar spoon (5 ml) absinthe
• 1 egg white (or 3/4 oz Aquafaba for a vegan option)
• 1 oz bubbly water
• Orange peel for garnish

Here’s how to mix it:

1. Combine all ingredients except the bubbly water in a shaker.
2. Dry shake (without ice) for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
3. Add ice and shake again for another 15 seconds.
4. Pour the bubbly water into a chilled highball glass.
5. Double-strain the mixture into the glass, taking care not to let it foam over.
6. Express orange oil over the top and garnish with the peel.

The result is a divine cocktail that defies expectations. The absinthe provides a subtle complexity, while the scotch shines through without overpowering the other flavours. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of 19th-century bartenders and a delightful way to start your day (responsibly, of course).

2. The Affinity Cocktail

How Has This Classic Evolved?

The Affinity Cocktail, dating back to the early 1900s, has undergone several variations over the years. Today, it’s often considered a “perfect” Rob Roy, meaning it uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth.

For this elegant aperitif, I recommend using a single malt Island whiskey like Talisker for its smoky, briny flavour that stands up well to the vermouth. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3/4 oz scotch
• 3/4 oz sweet vermouth
• 3/4 oz dry or blanc vermouth
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Lemon peel for garnish

To prepare:

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
2. Stir for about 30 seconds until well-chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Express lemon oil over the top and garnish with the peel.

The Affinity Cocktail is a beautiful balance of flavours. The richness of the vermouths complements the smoky, salty qualities of the Island scotch, while the bitters add a subtle complexity. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate a more spirit-forward cocktail.

3. The Bobby Burns: A Rob Roy Variation with a Twist

What Sets This Cocktail Apart from Its Cousin?

Similar to the Affinity Cocktail, the Bobby Burns also hails from the early 1900s and shares similarities with the Rob Roy. However, it takes a different approach, resulting in a unique flavour profile.

For this cocktail, I prefer using a milder single-malt Highland whisky like Aberfeldy 12. Here’s the recipe:

• 2 oz scotch
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 1/2 oz Bénédictine
• Lemon peel for garnish

To mix:

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
2. Stir until well-chilled, about 30 seconds.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Express lemon oil over the top and garnish with the peel.

The Bobby Burns is a visually stunning cocktail with a beautiful amber hue. Its flavour profile is markedly different from the Affinity, featuring a honey sweetness from the Bénédictine that complements the soft, smooth scotch. This cocktail leans more towards the dessert end of the spectrum and serves as an excellent introduction to scotch cocktails for newcomers.

4. The Penicillin: A Modern Classic That Revolutionized Scotch Cocktails

How Did This 21st Century Creation Become an Instant Classic?

Fast-forwarding to 2005, we encounter the Penicillin, a modern classic created by Sam Ross. This cocktail revolutionized the use of scotch in contemporary mixology by combining two distinctly different scotch whiskies.

To create this innovative cocktail, you’ll need:

• 2 oz blended malt whisky (like Monkey Shoulder)
• 1/4 oz Islay single malt scotch (like Laphroaig 10 Year)
• 3/4 oz honey syrup (3 parts honey to 1 part water)
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3-4 slices fresh ginger
• Candied ginger for garnish

Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Muddle the fresh ginger slices in a shaker.
2. Add the blended whisky, honey syrup, and lemon juice to the shaker.
3. Fill with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
4. Double strain into a lowball glass filled with one large ice cube.
5. Carefully float the Islay scotch on top.
6. Garnish with a piece of candied ginger.

The Penicillin is a perfect balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and smoky flavours. The blended malt provides a smooth base, while the float of Islay scotch adds a powerful smoky punch. The fresh ginger gives it an extra oomph that, combined with the honey and lemon, creates a refreshing yet complex drink.

5. The Tartan Cocktail: An Original Creation for the Modern Scotch Lover

What Inspired This New Addition to the Scotch Cocktail Canon?

To round out our journey, I’d like to share an original creation: the Tartan Cocktail. This drink combines elements of the Rob Roy, Rusty Nail, and Black Manhattan to create a new, spirit-forward scotch cocktail.

For this modern masterpiece, I recommend using a Highland single malt like Glendronach 10 Year. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5 oz scotch
• 3/4 oz sweet vermouth
• 1/4 oz Drambuie
• 1/4 oz amaro (I prefer Ramazzotti)
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Orange peel for garnish

To prepare:

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
2. Stir for about 30 seconds until well-chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Express orange oil over the top and garnish with the peel.

The Tartan Cocktail is a complex and layered drink that showcases the versatility of scotch in modern mixology. The sweetness of the Drambuie is balanced by the bitterness of the amaro, while the vermouth adds richness and depth. The bold Highland scotch ties everything together, creating a harmonious and sophisticated cocktail.

Embracing the World of Scotch Cocktails

As we conclude our journey through time and taste, I hope I’ve inspired you to explore the wonderful world of scotch cocktails. From the historical Morning Glory Fizz to the contemporary Penicillin and my original Tartan Cocktail, these drinks demonstrate the incredible versatility of scotch whisky.

Why Should You Experiment with Scotch in Cocktails?

• Diversity of flavours: Scotch offers a wide range of flavour profiles, from light and floral to rich and smoky, providing endless possibilities for cocktail creation.
• Historical significance: Many classic cocktails feature scotch as a key ingredient, allowing you to taste a piece of mixology history.
• Modern innovations: Contemporary bartenders continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible with scotch in cocktails, creating exciting new flavour combinations.
• Accessibility: Scotch cocktails can serve as an approachable introduction to the spirit for those who find it intimidating on its own.

While there’s certainly nothing wrong with enjoying scotch neat or on the rocks, I encourage you to broaden your horizons and try some of these exceptional cocktails. You might just discover a new favourite way to enjoy this noble spirit.

Remember, the world of mixology is all about experimentation and personal taste. Don’t be afraid to tweak these recipes to suit your preferences or even create your scotch cocktails. Who knows? You might just invent the next classic!

So, raise a glass to the wonderful world of scotch cocktails. Sláinte mhath!

FAQ’s About Scotch Cocktails

What does scotch pair well with?

Scotch pairs well with diverse mixers and flavours. Soda water enhances delicate notes, creating refreshing highballs. Apple juice complements Scotch’s sweetness. While citrus can be tricky, lemon often works well. Cinnamon adds warmth and complexity. These combinations offer enjoyable, personalized drinking experiences.

What are the top 5 whiskey cocktails?

The top five whiskey cocktails are:

1. Old Fashioned: Bourbon, sugar, bitters, orange peel

2. whiskey sour: Bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white

3. Manhattan: Rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, bitters

4. Sazerac: Rye whiskey, absinthe, sugar, Peychaud’s bitters

5. Rob Roy: Scotch, sweet vermouth, bitters

These classics showcase whiskey’s versatility in cocktails.