Crafting the Perfect Penicillin Cocktail: Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces of Blended Scotch
  • 3/4 ounce of Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 3/4 ounce of Honey-Ginger Syrup
  • 1/4 ounce of Islay Single Malt Scotch
  • 2-3 slices of Fresh Ginger (for the Honey-Ginger Syrup)
  • 1 cup of Honey (for the Honey-Ginger Syrup)
  • 1 cup of Water (for the Honey-Ginger Syrup)
  • 1 Lemon Wheel (for garnish)
  • 1 Candied Ginger (for garnish)

Steps and instructions

  1. In a mixing glass, combine the blended scotch, fresh lemon juice, and honey-ginger syrup.
  2. Add ice and stir until well-chilled.
  3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
  4. Top with the Islay scotch.
  5. To make the honey-ginger syrup, combine 1 cup of honey, 1 cup of water and 2-3 slices of fresh ginger in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the honey has fully dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool and strain out the ginger.
  6. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a piece of candied ginger before serving.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Glass - A glass container used for combining and stirring the ingredients.
  • Rocks Glass - A short and wide glass used for serving the Penicillin cocktail.
  • Saucepan - A deep cooking pan used for making the honey-ginger syrup.
  • Stirring Spoon - A long-handled spoon used for stirring the cocktail.
  • Strainer - A tool used to strain out any solid ingredients from the cocktail mixture.

Recipe variations

  • Use peated scotch instead of Islay scotch for a smokier flavor.
  • Experiment with different types of honey for unique flavor profiles.
  • Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or a dash of bitters for an herbal twist.
  • Replace the blended scotch with bourbon or rye whiskey for a different base spirit.
  • Try adding a splash of apple or cranberry juice for a fruity variation.
  • Infuse the honey-ginger syrup with spices like cinnamon or cloves for added warmth.
  • Add a few drops of angostura or orange bitters for a more complex flavor.
  • Instead of a rocks glass, serve the Penicillin in a coupe or martini glass for a more elegant presentation.

Recipe overview

Penicillin is a classic cocktail known for its refreshing and complex blend of flavors. This recipe combines the smoky taste of blended scotch with the sweetness of homemade honey-ginger syrup, and the tartness of fresh lemon juice to create a drink that is truly unique. Topped off with a hint of Islay single malt scotch, this cocktail is a treat for the senses. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just a fan of good drinks, this recipe is sure to impress. Expect a balance of flavors that are sweet, tart, and smoky, all in one glass. Get ready to stir, strain, and sip your way to a delicious Penicillin cocktail.

Common questions

  1. Can I use any type of scotch for this recipe? You should use a blended scotch for the main portion of the drink and an Islay single malt scotch for the float on top.
  2. What is honey-ginger syrup and how do I make it? Honey-ginger syrup is a sweetener with a hint of ginger flavor. To make it, combine 1 cup of honey, 1 cup of water, and 2-3 slices of fresh ginger in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the honey has fully dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool and strain out the ginger.
  3. Can I adjust the sweetness or tartness of the drink? Yes, you can adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more or less honey-ginger syrup or fresh lemon juice, depending on your preference.
  4. What can I use as a garnish for this drink? You can garnish the Penicillin cocktail with a lemon wheel and a piece of candied ginger.
  5. Can I make a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail? Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version by omitting the scotch and replacing it with a non-alcoholic alternative such as non-alcoholic whiskey or a ginger ale.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing glass - Used for combining the ingredients and stirring the cocktail.
  • Rocks glass - The serving glass for the Penicillin cocktail.
  • Saucepan - For making the honey-ginger syrup.
  • Bar spoon - Used for stirring the cocktail in the mixing glass.
  • Strainer - To strain the cocktail into the rocks glass.

Origin stories

The Penicillin cocktail is a modern classic, concocted in the early 2000s by bartender Sam Ross at New York's famed Milk & Honey bar. Despite its relatively recent origins, it has already made an indelible mark on the world of mixology. The drink's name, Penicillin, is a playful nod to its medicinal ingredients: the soothing honey and ginger, and the "burn" of the Scotch, meant to "cure" whatever might ail you. Its smoky and sweet flavor profile, combined with the sour tang of lemon, makes it a unique and invigorating cocktail experience.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.