Rusty Nail
A smooth Scotch sipper sweetened by honeyed, herbal Drambuie.
The Rusty Nail pairs Scotch whisky with Drambuie, the honey‑herbal Scotch liqueur, to create a simple, rich slow‑sipper. Stirred briefly over ice, it drinks malty and warm with heathered sweetness and soft spice. Blended Scotch keeps the drink cohesive, while smoky single malts create a more intense version. Though earlier Scotch‑and‑liqueur mixes existed, the Rusty Nail name solidified in the 1950s–60s, appearing in bartending guides and embraced by the Rat Pack era.
Ingredients
- • 2 oz Scotch whisky
- • 0.75 oz Drambuie
- • Lemon twist
Did you know?
“Mid‚Äëcentury bartending guides and Scotch brand materials document the Rusty Nail‚Äôs rise in the 1950s and 60s, with Rat Pack associations frequently noted in Imbibe and PunchDrink coverage.”
Bartender's Note
Adjust Drambuie to taste; small changes shift sweetness quickly.
How to make the Rusty Nail
- 1Add Scotch and Drambuie to a mixing glass with ice.
- 2Stir gently.
- 3Strain over a large cube.
- 4Garnish with a lemon twist.
