Revitalize Your Evening with the Penicillin Cocktail
Experience a delightful blend of fresh ginger and a splash of smoky Scotch that will transport your senses to a cozy autumn evening.
Why This Cocktail Shines
Muddling fresh ginger slices infuses the drink with an invigorating kick, while a float of peaty Islay Scotch introduces an enticing smokiness that beautifully complements the zesty citrus and spicy notes of ginger. The addition of honey softens the boldness of the Scotch and balances out the tartness from lemon juice.
Though it may not possess medicinal properties like its namesake antibiotic, the Penicillin Cocktail is undoubtedly a comforting remedy for chilly nights. Crafted by renowned New York bartender Sam Ross, this cocktail harmonizes soothing flavors such as honey, lemon juice, and fresh ginger with robust Scotch whisky. To elevate it further, a delicate pour of aromatic Islay malt crowns this drink, offering an aroma reminiscent of woodsmoke on crisp fall days.
While many bartenders have creatively adapted Ross’s original recipe using tequila, gin, or rum—with fantastic results—the classic Scotch version remains an excellent starting point. A quick tip for preparation: instead of making homemade ginger-honey syrup (which can lose its freshness), simply muddle some fresh ginger slices directly into your drink for maximum flavor impact.
Penicillin Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 slices fresh ginger
- 2 ounces blended Scotch whisky (Famous Grouse is recommended)
- 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3/4 ounce honey syrup (see preparation note below)
- 1/4 ounce Islay single malt Scotch (like Laphroaig)
Instructions:
- In a cocktail shaker, use a wooden muddler or mixing spoon to thoroughly mash the fresh ginger at the bottom.
- Add blended Scotch whisky, lemon juice, and honey syrup to the shaker.
- Fill with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled—about 20 seconds.
- Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass; consider double-straining through a fine mesh strainer to catch any small bits of ginger.
- Gently pour Islay single malt over the back of a bar spoon so it floats on top.
Special Equipment Needed:
- Mixing glass
- Cocktail strainer
Honey Syrup Preparation:
To create honey syrup at home, mix equal parts honey and hot water until fully combined. Allow it to cool before use; store in your refrigerator for up to one week.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 665
- Total Fat: 1g (2% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 0g (2% DV)
- Cholesterol: 0mg (0% DV)
- Sodium: 75mg (3% DV)
- Total Carbohydrates: 105g (38% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% DV)
- Total Sugars: 56g
- Protein: 3g
Note: The % Daily Value (%DV) indicates how much each nutrient contributes to your daily diet based on a standard intake of about 2,000 calories.
Indulge in this warming concoction that perfectly captures autumn’s essence!