Rusty nail

Rusty Nail

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A classic two-ingredient cocktail combining the smoky depth of Scotch whisky with the honeyed, herbal sweetness of Drambuie.

SUGGESTED GLASSWARE

Rocks Glass

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Recipe

1 cocktail (117ml)
  • Scotch Whisky 
    60 ml
  • Drambuie 
    30 ml
  • Lemon Peel 
    1 strip
Recipe credit: Classic recipe, popularized at New York's 21 Club in the 1950s

Instructions

Step

Fill an old-fashioned glass with a large ice cube or several ice cubes.

Step

In a mixing glass, combine 60ml Scotch whisky and 30ml Drambuie with ice.

Step

Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.

Step

Strain the mixture over the ice in the prepared old-fashioned glass using a julep strainer.

Step

Express the oils from a strip of lemon zest over the drink, then drop the zest into the glass as garnish.

Equipment

Mixing glass
Bar spoon
Jigger
Julep Strainer

Description

The Rusty Nail is a timeless cocktail that dates back to the 1937 British Industries Fair, gaining popularity in the 1950s with the Rat Pack. Its simplicity belies a rich history and surprising versatility, making it a staple for both cocktail enthusiasts and newcomers alike. This warming, after-dinner drink perfectly balances the smoky, malty notes of Scotch with the complex honeyed herbs of Drambuie.

For the uninitiated, Drambuie is a Scotch-based liqueur with honey, herbs, and spices.

Nutritional information

1 cocktail (117ml)
Calories
185
ABV
28.5 %
Alcohol
26.4 g
Carbs
8.2 g
Carbs from Sugar
8 g
Fat
0 g
Protein
0 g
Sodium
2 mg
Nutritional information is approximate and includes estimated 30% dilution from ice. Values may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.

Tips & Notes

  • Always stir, never shake - stirring preserves the silky texture and clarity of the drink while providing proper dilution.

  • Use a large ice cube to slow dilution and maintain optimal temperature throughout drinking.

  • Adjust the ratio to taste - use less Drambuie (15ml) for a drier drink, or equal parts for a sweeter cocktail.

  • Blended Scotch works better than expensive single malts - save your premium bottles for neat sipping.

The classic ratio is 2:1 (60ml Scotch to 30ml Drambuie) for optimal balance. You can adjust to 4:1 for a drier drink or 1:1 for sweeter preferences.

While Drambuie is traditional and provides the signature honey-herb flavor, you could experiment with other honey liqueurs, but the taste profile will be different from a classic Rusty Nail.

Blended Scotch is recommended for cost-effectiveness and balance. Single malts can add complexity but may be considered overkill since the Drambuie adds significant flavor.

While optional, lemon zest is highly recommended as it provides aromatic brightness that balances the sweetness and enhances the overall drinking experience.

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Cocktail Difficulty Levels

We’ve added a difficulty rating to every cocktail so you’ll know what to expect before you start mixing. It’s not about being “hard” or “easy” in the strict sense—it’s about how much preparation, skill, and hunting for ingredients you’ll need.

  • Beginner – Quick builds or simple shakes with common ingredients you’ll likely already have at home. Perfect for beginners or a casual evening.

  • Intermediate – A bit more technique (stirring, shaking, muddling, layering) and a few extra ingredients. You might need to buy one or two bottles or garnishes you don’t already stock.

  • Advanced – Multiple steps, specialty techniques (infusions, syrups, foams), or rare ingredients. These drinks take more effort and planning, but reward you with something truly impressive.

The rating is based on things like the number of ingredients, how rare they are, and the skills needed to bring the cocktail together.

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Recipe notes

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Quick recipe

Ingredients

  • Scotch Whisky
    60 ml
  • Drambuie
    30 ml
  • Lemon Peel
    1 strip

Method

  1. Fill an old-fashioned glass with a large ice cube or several ice cubes.
  2. In a mixing glass, combine 60ml Scotch whisky and 30ml Drambuie with ice.
  3. Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.
  4. Strain the mixture over the ice in the prepared old-fashioned glass using a julep strainer.
  5. Express the oils from a strip of lemon zest over the drink, then drop the zest into the glass as garnish.