Penicillin Cocktail
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Penicillin Cocktail

The Penicillin cocktail is guaranteed to cure all types of ailments - that's how the combination of peated scotch whiskey, ginger, honey and lemon works, right?

5 min
medium
rocks glass

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 shots scotch
  • 1/2 shot peated scotch whiskey
  • 1/2 shot ginger liqueur
  • 1/2 shot honey syrup
  • 3/4 shot fresh lemon juice
  • 1 candied ginger stick
Garnish: candied ginger stick

Instructions

  1. 1

    Add all the ingredients to your shaker. 

  2. 2

    Shake hard for 10-15 seconds. 

  3. 3

    Strain into an ice-filled large old-fashioned glass. 

  4. 4

    Add the garnish.

Pro Tip

For an extra smoky kick, try using a smoky Islay scotch for the peated whiskey component. And don't skip the candied ginger garnish—it adds a delightful sweet and spicy touch!

The Story Behind the Penicillin Cocktail

The Penicillin cocktail was created in the early 2000s by New York bartender Sam Ross at the renowned Milk & Honey bar. Inspired by the medicinal properties of its ingredients, this modern classic combines the smoky depth of peated scotch with the soothing flavors of ginger, honey, and lemon, making it a perfect remedy for a chilly evening.

What Pairs Well

Food Pairings

  • 🍽️
    smoked salmon

    The smoky notes of the cocktail complement the rich, savory flavors of smoked salmon perfectly.

  • 🍽️
    ginger-glazed chicken wings

    The ginger in both the wings and the cocktail creates a harmonious flavor experience.

  • 🍽️
    lemon tart

    The tartness of the lemon dessert pairs beautifully with the cocktail's sweet and sour profile.

Perfect For

  • bachelorette weekend in Vegas

    This cocktail's bold flavors are perfect for a lively celebration with friends.

  • Super Bowl Sunday

    Its strong, smoky profile makes it a great match for game day excitement.

  • recovering from a bad date

    The soothing combination of honey and ginger is just what you need to lift your spirits.

  • rainy Sunday afternoon

    A cozy drink to enjoy while watching the rain fall outside.

Fun Facts

  • The Penicillin cocktail is named for its 'curative' properties, much like the antibiotic.

  • It's one of the few modern cocktails to gain classic status in a short time.

  • The use of both blended and peated scotch gives it a unique depth of flavor.

Make This Drink with Tom or Tina

Watch our bartenders mix it up with fun animations!