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Cocktail Maestro

Scottish Spring Matcha

The Scottish Spring Matcha is a vibrant and refreshing fusion of earthy matcha, bright citrus, and smooth Scotch whisky. This cocktail celebrates the awakening of spring in the Highlands, marrying the complexity of Scotch with the invigorating notes of green tea and fresh herbs. It's the perfect drink for those seeking a sophisticated twist on a whisky sour, with a subtle nod to Japanese tea culture.

5 minutesMedium1 serving
Scottish Spring Matcha
Featured
Ingredients
1 serving
  • Blended Scotch whisky
    60 ml (2 oz)
    Choose a smooth, not overly peaty Scotch
  • Fresh lemon juice
    25 ml (0.75 oz)
    Freshly squeezed for best flavor
  • Honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
    15 ml (0.5 oz)
    Adds a gentle sweetness that complements matcha
  • Matcha green tea powder
    15 ml (0.5 oz)
    Or 1/2 teaspoon, whisked with water to dissolve
  • Egg white
    30 ml (1 oz)
    Optional for a silky texture and foam
  • Fresh mint leaves
    90 ml (3 oz)
    Plus extra for garnish
Tools Needed
  • Cocktail shaker
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Bar spoon
  • Jigger
  • Citrus juicer
Instructions
  1. Add the Scotch whisky, lemon juice, honey syrup, matcha (dissolved in a splash of hot water), egg white (if using), and mint leaves to a cocktail shaker.

  2. Dry shake (without ice) vigorously for 10 seconds to emulsify the egg white and matcha.

  3. Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well-chilled, about 15 seconds.

  4. Double strain through a fine mesh strainer into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.

  5. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a dusting of matcha powder.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail
  • Unique blend of Japanese matcha and Scotch whisky
  • Visually stunning with a bright green hue
  • Balanced flavor: earthy, citrusy, herbal, and smoky
  • Perfect for spring gatherings or as an after-dinner sipper
  • Appeals to adventurous cocktail lovers and whisky fans alike
History & Origin

The Scottish Spring Matcha is a modern creation born from the global craft cocktail movement. Inspired by the growing popularity of matcha and the timeless allure of Scotch whisky, bartenders in Edinburgh began experimenting with green tea infusions in the early 2020s. Seeking to capture the essence of Scotland's lush, green springtime, they combined matcha with the smoky, floral notes of a good blended or single malt Scotch. The result is a cocktail that bridges continents—Japanese tea rituals meet Scottish tradition—in a glass that’s as visually striking as it is delicious.

Garnish

A fresh mint sprig and a light dusting of matcha powder. The mint adds a pop of color and an aromatic herbal note, while the matcha dusting highlights the drink’s vibrant hue and earthy flavor.

Nutrition Info

Approx. 180 calories per serving. Contains alcohol, protein from egg white (if used), and trace antioxidants from matcha and mint. Gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions
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