Penicillin
The Penicillin cocktail is a modern classic that brilliantly balances smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors. With its warming ginger, soothing honey, and peaty Scotch, it’s a drink that comforts as much as it refreshes. It’s the perfect choice for whisky lovers and cocktail adventurers alike.
- Blended Scotch whisky60 ml (2 oz)Choose a smooth blended Scotch as the base.
- Fresh lemon juice25 ml (0.75 oz)Freshly squeezed for brightness.
- Honey-ginger syrup25 ml (0.75 oz)Homemade or quality store-bought.
- Islay single malt Scotch10 ml (0.25 oz)Use a peaty Islay Scotch for the float.
- Cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Jigger
- Fine mesh strainer
- Rocks glass
Add blended Scotch, lemon juice, and honey-ginger syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake vigorously until well chilled (about 15 seconds).
Double strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
Gently float the Islay single malt Scotch over the top by pouring it over the back of a bar spoon.
Garnish and serve immediately.
- A perfect marriage of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors.
- Showcases Scotch in a unique, approachable way.
- Ginger and honey give it a comforting, warming quality.
- Versatile for all seasons—refreshing over ice, yet cozy.
- Modern classic status with a fascinating backstory.
Created in 2005 by Sam Ross at New York’s famed Milk & Honey bar, the Penicillin was inspired by the idea of a whisky-based 'cure-all'—hence the medicinal name. Ross wanted to craft a cocktail that showcased Scotch’s complexity while making it approachable for those new to the spirit. The drink quickly gained notoriety in the craft cocktail scene and is now a staple on menus worldwide, celebrated for its layered flavors and innovative use of blended and peated Scotch.
Candied ginger or a thin slice of fresh ginger on the edge of the glass. This complements the ginger notes in the cocktail and adds visual appeal.
Approx. 180 calories per serving. Contains alcohol, honey, and citrus. Sugar content varies with syrup used.