Warm up with this classic Rusty Nail recipe! Made with Scotch and Drambuie, this smooth cocktail is perfect for an evening unwind.
Prep time: 1 minute minute
Mixing time: 1 minute minute
- 1½ oz Scotch Whisky
- ¾ oz Drambuie
- Ice cubes
- Lemon twist - for garnish, optional
Old Fashioned Glass
Measuring Jigger
Stirrer or Bar Spoon
Prep Glass: Fill your Old Fashioned glass with ice cubes.
Add Drambuie: Measure and pour ¾ oz Drambuie over the ice into your glass.
Add Scotch: Pour 1½ oz Scotch Whisky into your glass.
Stir Gently: Stir the ingredients gently with a bar spoon.
Garnish: Garnish with a lemon twist.
Substitutes:
- Scotch Whisky: When I don't have Scotch on hand, I sometimes use bourbon. It offers a sweeter, richer profile that pairs well with Drambuie. For a smokier edge, consider using a peated Scotch.
- Drambuie: If Drambuie eludes you, a mix of honey, herbs, and Scotch can emulate its flavor. Try 0.5 oz of honey, a pinch of dried herbs (like rosemary), and top up with 0.25 oz of Scotch. It won't be perfect, but it gets close!
Making a Pitcher:
- Scale: For a pitcher serving 8, use 12 oz of Scotch and 6 oz of Drambuie.
- Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the Scotch and Drambuie. Stir them together.
- Serve: Dispense the mixture into ice-filled Old Fashioned glasses, garnish with a lemon twist, and let your guests enjoy.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Scotch Substitute: Opt for a non-alcoholic whisky or a smoky tea for that distinctive flavor.
- Drambuie Substitute: Blend non-alcoholic herbal tea with a touch of honey to capture some of Drambuie's essence.
- Proceed As Usual: Replace the standard ingredients with the non-alcoholic alternatives and follow the main instructions. Adjust to taste, and you're good to go!
Making it Vegan:
The primary concern for a vegan version revolves around honey, often used in Drambuie. When seeking a vegan substitute for Drambuie, consider a blend of agave nectar or maple syrup with herbs and whisky.