Rob Roy Cocktail
cocktailwhiskeystrongsweet

Rob Roy Cocktail

The Rob Roy cocktail is a variation to the Manhattan - it’s made with scotch instead of bourbon or rye whiskey.

3 min
medium
coupe glass

Ingredients

  • 2 shots scotch
  • 1 shot sweet vermouth
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 1 cherry
Garnish: 1 cherry

Instructions

  1. 1

    Add all the ingredients to your mixing glass.

  2. 2

    Add ice & lovingly stir for 25-30 seconds. 

  3. 3

    Strain into a chilled martini glass. 

  4. 4

    Add the garnish.

Pro Tip

For a smoother Rob Roy, use a blended scotch rather than a single malt. It balances the flavors better and makes for a more harmonious cocktail.

The Story Behind the Rob Roy Cocktail

The Rob Roy cocktail was first crafted in 1894 at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. Named after the Scottish folk hero Rob Roy MacGregor, this drink is a tribute to its Scottish roots, using scotch instead of the traditional bourbon or rye found in a Manhattan. Its creation coincided with the premiere of an operetta about Rob Roy, adding a touch of theatrical flair to its origin.

What Pairs Well

Food Pairings

  • 🍽️
    smoked salmon canapés

    The smoky flavor of the salmon complements the scotch's rich, peaty notes.

  • 🍽️
    beef tartare

    The robust flavors of beef tartare pair perfectly with the strong, sweet profile of the Rob Roy.

  • 🍽️
    dark chocolate truffles

    The sweetness of the truffles enhances the vermouth's rich, sweet undertones.

Perfect For

  • celebrating a promotion

    Toast to success with a sophisticated Rob Roy, a drink that exudes confidence and class.

  • rainy Sunday afternoon

    Cozy up with a Rob Roy and let its warmth and depth brighten a gloomy day.

  • poker night

    A strong, classic cocktail like the Rob Roy is perfect for a night of high stakes and strategy.

  • watching a classic film

    Pair this timeless cocktail with a classic movie for an evening of elegance and nostalgia.

Fun Facts

  • The Rob Roy is essentially a Manhattan made with scotch, giving it a distinctively smoky and robust flavor.

  • This cocktail was named after a Scottish folk hero, adding a touch of legend to its allure.

  • The Rob Roy was created at the Waldorf Astoria, a hotel known for its luxurious and historic contributions to cocktail culture.

Make This Drink with Tom or Tina

Watch our bartenders mix it up with fun animations!