Tyler James The Penicillin cocktail is a classic yet unique drink that combines smoky and spicy flavors with a hint of honey sweetness. This cocktail is made with a blend of Scotch whisky, honey-ginger syrup, lemon juice, and is garnished with a slice of candied ginger. Its name pays homage to the famous antibiotic that revolutionized medicine. The Penicillin cocktail has become a staple in many cocktail bars around the world and is beloved by whisky and ginger enthusiasts alike.
Penicillin
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
Ingredients
- 2 oz blended Scotch whisky (Johnnie Walker Black Label)
- 1/4 oz Islay whisky, peaty (Laphroaig, Ardbeg)
- 3/4 oz lemon juice
- 3/4 oz honey-ginger syrup
- candied ginger or lemon peel (garnish)
Instructions
- Mix the blended Scotch with lemon juice and syrup in a shaker.
- Add ice cubes and shake until cold.
- Strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
- Layer the Islay whisky on top with the back of the spoon, or use a spray bottle.
- Garnish with candied ginger on a cocktail pick or a lemon peel
Notes
Honey-ginger syrup: in a sauce pan, mix equal parts clover honey and water with slices of ginger. Bring to a boil then simmer for five minutes over medium heat. Steep in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
In the absence of honey-ginger syrup, use 1/2 oz honey syrup and 1/4 oz ginger liqueur (Domaine de Canton).
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
One of the key ingredients in the Penicillin cocktail is Scotch whisky. It is a type of whisky that is made exclusively in Scotland and is known for its smoky and peaty flavor. The smokiness of the whisky is a perfect match for the spiciness of the ginger and the sweetness of the honey, creating a well-balanced and complex flavor profile.
The honey-ginger syrup used in the Penicillin cocktail is made by combining honey, ginger, and water in a saucepan and simmering until the mixture is syrupy. This syrup adds a sweetness to the cocktail that complements the other flavors perfectly. The ginger also adds a spicy kick to the cocktail, which is enhanced by the addition of candied ginger as a garnish.
Another key ingredient in the Penicillin cocktail is lemon juice. The lemon juice adds a tartness to the cocktail that balances out the sweetness of the honey-ginger syrup. It also helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients and adds a freshness to the cocktail.
To make the Penicillin cocktail, the ingredients are combined in a shaker with ice and shaken until well combined. The mixture is then strained into a glass filled with ice and garnished with a slice of candied ginger. The result is a delicious and complex cocktail that is sure to impress whisky and ginger enthusiasts alike.
The Penicillin cocktail has become a popular choice in many cocktail bars around the world. It is beloved by both bartenders and customers for its unique flavor profile and its ability to be customized to suit different tastes. For example, some bartenders add a smoky element to the cocktail by using a smoked syrup, while others add a spicier kick by using a ginger liqueur instead of the honey-ginger syrup.
The history of the Penicillin cocktail is also fascinating. It was first created in 2005 by Sam Ross, a bartender in New York City, and has since become a classic cocktail. The name of the cocktail pays homage to the famous antibiotic, penicillin, which was discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928. The name reflects the cocktail’s ability to cure the winter blues and its reputation as a “cure-all” for any ailment.
In conclusion, the Penicillin cocktail is a unique and classic drink that combines a variety of flavors to create a delicious and complex beverage. It is made with a blend of Scotch whisky, honey-ginger syrup, lemon juice, and is garnished with a slice of candied ginger. Its name pays homage to the famous antibiotic that revolutionized medicine, and it has become a staple in many cocktail bars around the world. With its smoky and spicy flavors and its hint of honey sweetness, the Penicillin cocktail is a perfect choice for those looking for something different from the usual cocktails.
