Rusty Nail
A rich Scotch cocktail combining whisky with sweet and herbal Drambuie.
Drink details
Glass
Old Fashioned Glass
Ice
Large Cube
Method
Stirred
Strength
Strong
Servings
1
Recipe
Ingredients
Blended Scotch Whisky
45 ml
Drambuie
25 ml
Garnish
Lemon Peel
Twist
1 piece
Rating
Rate this drink
Method
Preparation
- 1
Pour the Scotch whisky and Drambuie into an Old Fashioned glass filled with ice.
- 2
Stir gently.
- 3
Garnish with a lemon twist.
About the Rusty Nail
The Rusty Nail is a classic two-spirit cocktail combining Scotch whisky with Drambuie, a Scotch-based liqueur flavored with honey, herbs and spices. The drink became particularly popular during the mid-20th century and is closely associated with the cocktail culture of the 1960s. Its simple construction allows the character of the Scotch to remain prominent while Drambuie softens the whisky with sweetness and aromatic complexity.
What does a Rusty Nail taste like?
The Rusty Nail tastes rich, warming and whisky-forward. Scotch supplies malt, oak and subtle smoky notes, while Drambuie adds honeyed sweetness together with herbal and spiced aromas. The drink is noticeably sweeter and softer than Scotch served neat, but remains distinctly spirit-forward with a long, warming finish.
Tips for making a Rusty Nail
Choose a Scotch with enough character to remain noticeable alongside the sweetness of the Drambuie. Stir gently with ice to chill and dilute the drink without making it watery. Finish with a lemon twist to add a fresh citrus aroma that brightens the rich whisky and honey flavors.
