When it comes to mixology, there’s no denying that Scotch whisky is a star player. Its rich, smoky flavor profile lends itself perfectly to a wide range of cocktails that are both refreshing and sophisticated. From classics like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan to more modern twists on traditional formulas, there are countless ways to enjoy this iconic spirit. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 classic Scotch cocktail recipes that are sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Smoky Scotch Old Fashioned
A twist on the classic old fashioned, this smoky scotch variation adds a depth of flavor with Laphroaig whiskey and smoky bitters. Perfect for those who enjoy complex and bold cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Laphroaig Scotch Whiskey
– 1 sugar cube (about 1/2 teaspoon)
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– 2 dashes Smoked Cherrywood Bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, place the sugar cube and add a small amount of water to the glass.
2. Muddle the sugar until it dissolves, then add the Laphroaig Scotch Whiskey, Angostura bitters, and Smoked Cherrywood Bitters.
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture.
4. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold beverage.
Rob Roy with a Twist
Rob Roy with a Twist: A Modern Take on the Classic Cocktail
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For this recipe, we’re putting a modern spin on the classic Rob Roy cocktail by adding a splash of citrus and a hint of spice. This twist gives the drink a fresh and unique flavor profile that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Scotch whisky (such as Glenfiddich or Macallan)
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– Dash of cinnamon bitters
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the Scotch whisky, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and honey syrup.
3. Add a dash of cinnamon bitters.
4. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.
Cooking Time: None! This is a mixed drink, not a cooked dish.
Blood and Sand Cocktail
This Blood and Sand cocktail is a timeless mix of whiskey, orange juice, grenadine, and cherry liqueur that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. With its bold flavors and striking appearance, it’s no wonder this drink has remained a staple in many cocktail bars.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz Freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 oz Grenadine syrup
– 1/2 oz Cherry liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, orange juice, grenadine, and cherry liqueur to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange twist.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Scotch Manhattan Elegance
This variation of the classic Manhattan cocktail combines the smoothness of scotch whisky with the richness of sweet vermouth and a hint of bitters, creating a sophisticated and refined drink perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz scotch whisky (preferably a smoky or peated variety)
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the scotch whisky, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
3. Stir for approximately 30-45 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a cherry.
Cooking Time: None! This is a zero-calorie, zero-cooking-time drink.
Rusty Nail with Honey
A twist on the classic Rusty Nail cocktail, this recipe adds a sweet and soothing touch of honey to balance out the smoky flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Whiskey (such as Laphroaig or Caol Ila)
– 1/2 oz Drambuie
– 3/4 oz Honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, Drambuie, and honey syrup to the mixing glass.
3. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Express a thin strip of orange peel over the drink, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– None! This is a cocktail recipe.
Penicillin Cocktail Revival
A modern twist on the classic Penicillin cocktail, this recipe combines the smoothness of blended Scotch whisky with the spicy warmth of honey and ginger. Perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz blended Scotch whisky
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur
– 3 dashes Islay Scotch-infused bitters
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the blended Scotch whisky, lemon juice, honey syrup, and ginger liqueur.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Add the Islay Scotch-infused bitters and stir gently to combine.
6. Express a lemon twist or wheel over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None
Scotch Sour with Citrus Zest
A twist on the classic cocktail, this recipe adds a burst of citrus flavor to the rich and tangy Scotch Sour.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz scotch whisky
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz egg white
– 1/4 oz citrus zest syrup (see note)
– Dash of Angostura bitters
– Orange twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine scotch whisky, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white.
2. Dry shake (shake without ice) for 10-15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
3. Add citrus zest syrup and bitters; fill shaker with ice.
4. Shake vigorously for another 10-15 seconds.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make citrus zest syrup, combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. Stir in the grated zest of 1-2 oranges (depending on size). Let cool before using.
Godfather Cocktail Smooth Blend
Experience the perfect blend of smooth whiskey and rich liqueur in this indulgent cocktail. This Godfather variation adds a creamy twist to the classic recipe, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or scotch work well)
– 1 oz Tia Maria liqueur
– 1 oz Heavy cream
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
2. Add the whiskey, Tia Maria liqueur, heavy cream, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required – just shake and serve!
Highland Mule with Ginger Beer
This Scottish-inspired take on the classic Moscow Mule adds a spicy kick from ginger beer, perfect for warm weather or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Scotch whisky
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime (about 1/2 oz)
– Ice
– Lime wheel and mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Scotch whisky.
3. Top with ginger beer, stirring gently to combine.
4. Squeeze in the lime juice and drop the lime wheel into the glass.
5. Garnish with mint sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just assemble and serve.
Scotch Negroni Bold Flavor
Elevate your cocktail game with this bold twist on the classic Negroni, featuring smoky Scotch whiskey and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for those who prefer a stronger flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Scotch whiskey (we recommend Laphroaig or Glenfiddich)
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Scotch whiskey, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None required!
Smoky Maple Scotch Smash
A twist on the classic Old Fashioned, this Smoky Maple Scotch Smash combines the warmth of scotch with the sweetness of maple syrup and a hint of smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz scotch whisky
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 2 dashes smoked bitters
– 1 orange twist or wheel, for garnish
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the scotch, maple syrup, and smoked bitters.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe.
Scotch and Soda Simple Mix
A classic cocktail that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, the Scotch and Soda Simple Mix is a refreshing blend of scotch whisky, soda water, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a relaxing evening or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 oz scotch whisky (your choice of brand)
• 4 oz soda water
• 1/2 teaspoon simple syrup (or to taste)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the scotch whisky and top with soda water.
3. Add 1/2 teaspoon of simple syrup (adjust to your sweetness preference).
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and serve.
Laphroaig Project Cocktail
This cocktail combines the bold, smoky flavors of Laphroaig whisky with sweet and tangy notes, creating a unique and intriguing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Laphroaig Whisky
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/4 oz green Chartreuse
– Ice
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the Laphroaig Whisky, honey syrup, grapefruit juice, and Green Chartreuse.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
5. Garnish with an orange twist.
Cooking Time: N/A
Scotch Basil Smash Refreshing
This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. With the bold flavors of scotch and basil, it’s sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Scotch whisky
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• Ice
• Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine scotch whisky, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add a handful of fresh basil leaves to the shaker and muddle (gently press) them with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and additional basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe.
Peat Monster Cocktail Intense
Experience the bold, smoky flavors of Islay whisky in this intense cocktail, perfect for those who dare to be different. This recipe combines rich peat notes with sweet and tangy elements, creating a complex flavor profile that’s sure to intrigue.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Islay Scotch whisky (such as Laphroaig or Ardbeg)
– 1 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz absinthe
– 1 dash of bitters
– Ice
– Orange twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the Islay Scotch whisky, honey syrup, grapefruit juice, and absinthe to the shaker.
3. Add a dash of bitters.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Scotch Ginger Highball
This Scotch Ginger Highball recipe combines the spicy warmth of ginger beer with the smooth, smoky flavor of scotch whisky. Perfect for a hot summer evening or a sophisticated cocktail party.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz scotch whisky (such as Glenfiddich or Macallan)
– 4 oz ginger beer
– Juice of 1 lime
– Slice of fresh ginger, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the scotch whisky.
3. Top with ginger beer.
4. Squeeze in the juice of one lime wedge.
5. Garnish with a slice of fresh ginger.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (serve immediately)
Smoky Rosemary Scotch Sour
Elevate your cocktail game with this smoky twist on the classic Whiskey Sour. The combination of rosemary and smoked salt adds a complex depth to this tangy drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Smoked Whiskey (such as Laphroaig or Islay)
– 3/4 oz Freshly squeezed Lemon Juice
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz Rosemary-Infused Syrup (see note)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
– Orange wheel or rosemary sprig, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and rosemary-infused syrup to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain into prepared glass.
6. Garnish with an orange wheel or rosemary sprig.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, not a dish to cook.
Classic Scotch on the Rocks
A timeless and simple cocktail that showcases the smooth character of scotch whisky. This recipe is a perfect way to enjoy a glass of fine scotch with friends or as a relaxing evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz scotch whisky
– 4-6 oz ice
– Lemon twist or wedge (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a rocks glass with the desired amount of ice.
2. Pour the scotch whisky over the ice.
3. Stir gently to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Express a lemon twist or add a lemon wedge, if desired, for garnish.
Cooking Time: None! This is a served-cold cocktail.
Summary
Get ready to experience the rich flavors and bold characters of Scotland’s finest whiskies with these 18 classic Scotch cocktails. From smoky twists on old favorites like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan, to refreshing takes on summer classics like the Mule and Sour, there’s something for every palate. Discover new flavor combinations and techniques in recipes like the Blood and Sand Cocktail, Penicillin Cocktail Revival, and Smoky Maple Scotch Smash. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking to explore the world of Scotch cocktails, this collection is sure to delight.
