The Penicillin Cocktail, a modern classic that marries the bold smokiness of Islay Scotch with warming ginger, bright lemon, and a touch of honey.
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The Penicillin Cocktail: A Whisky Drink You’ll Want to Make
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.
In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.
So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
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In a cocktail world bursting with trendy drinks and fancy mixes, it’s pretty surprising to find a newer classic that feels as good as the old favorites. But now and then, a drink pops up that shakes things up while still respecting the classics.
Meet the Penicillin Cocktail — a drink that doesn’t just taste good but also brings a sense of comfort.
It’s got a smoky flavor combined with zesty and warming notes. The Penicillin isn’t just another drink; it tells a story about combining traditional ingredients with a modern twist, making it perfect for everyone, whether you’re just starting to explore whisky or you’re already a big fan.
In this article, we’ll explore how this 21st-century classic came to be, how to whip it up using Australian measurements, and some fun variations so you can give it your own spin.
A Modern Cocktail with Classic Roots
Despite its name bringing to mind something you’d find at a pharmacy, the Penicillin Cocktail is far from ordinary. It first showed up in the early 2000s, thanks to bartender Sam Ross at Milk & Honey in New York City. Ross, who actually hails from Melbourne, set out to create a whisky cocktail that was bold yet approachable, smoky but balanced, with plenty of flavors without being overwhelming.
Taking inspiration from classic whisky sours and old-school medicinal drinks meant to cure a cold (think of those warm lemon and ginger drinks), he came up with:
– Blended Scotch whisky for smoothness
– A drizzle of peated Islay whisky for that smoky punch
– A unique honey-ginger syrup for a touch of sweetness and spice
– The refreshing kick of fresh lemon juice
The playful name “Penicillin” pokes fun at its “healing” qualities. It suggests that drinking it might just give you a little boost, and for many people, it truly does.
Since its inception, the Penicillin has quickly climbed the ranks to become a favorite around the globe. You’ll see it on cocktail menus all over the place, marking its spot as a staple in the realm of whisky drinks, thanks to its balance of flavors.
Why the Penicillin Works
Now, what makes the Penicillin so special? Let’s break it down for you.
The blended Scotch whisky gives a smooth, malty base — not overpowering but just right.
The Islay whisky on top adds a nice smoky finish that lingers pleasantly.
Fresh lemon juice cuts through the richness, making it refreshing.
The honey-ginger syrup brings in sweetness, spice, and warmth — think of it like a cozy blanket when it’s chilly outside.
This combination of sweet, sour, smoky, and spicy is compelling. Each sip unfolds like a little adventure — first you get that tanginess from the lemon, followed by the sweetness from the ginger, and then the subtle smoky flavor from the Islay whisky at the end.
It’s no surprise that many bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts see the Penicillin as a modern work of art.
Making the Penicillin at Home
Let’s jump into making this delightful drink at home. Here’s a straightforward recipe using AU measurements for precision.
Ingredients:
– 60 mL blended Scotch whisky (like Monkey Shoulder or Chivas Regal)
– 20 mL freshly squeezed lemon juice (about half a lemon)
– 20 mL honey-ginger syrup (we’ll get to that recipe)
– 7 mL (about a bar spoon or a small splash) of peated Islay whisky (think Laphroaig or Ardbeg)
– Ice
– A bit of candied ginger or a lemon slice for garnishing
Making Honey-Ginger Syrup:
Before you start blending the cocktail, let’s whip up the syrup that adds that delightful kick.
Ingredients:
– ½ cup honey (locally sourced or raw is best)
– ½ cup water
– 2 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger
Method:
1. In a small saucepan, mix the honey and water over medium heat.
2. Stir it until the honey completely dissolves.
3. Toss in the grated ginger and let it simmer for about 5–10 minutes.
4. Take it off the heat and let it steep for another 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Strain through a fine mesh sieve and let it cool.
6. Store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week.
Shaking Up the Cocktail:
1. Start by getting your glass ready. A rocks glass is perfect. Chill it by adding ice or pop it in the freezer for a few minutes.
2. Build your cocktail by adding the 60 mL blended Scotch, 20 mL lemon juice, and 20 mL honey-ginger syrup into a shaker.
3. Add ice and shake it all up vigorously for about 10 to 15 seconds.
4. Strain the mix into your chilled rocks glass over fresh ice.
5. For the final touch, gently float the 7 mL of peated whisky on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
6. Garnish with a piece of candied ginger, a twist of lemon, or both.
What Should You Expect?
The result is a beautiful golden drink that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. It’s citrusy in aroma, sweet and spicy when you sip, and finishes with that lovely hint of smokiness.
Why the Penicillin Stands Out
One of the reasons people love the Penicillin is its mix of contrasting flavors:
– The warm, soothing honey vs. the sharp ginger
– The gentle blended whisky vs. the bold peaty single malt on top
– The sweet syrup vs. the tangy lemon juice
Each ingredient plays its part, creating a mix that feels balanced and delicious, similar to a band where every instrument shines.
As you sip, the drink evolves — especially with that Islay whisky mingling in. By the time you reach the bottom of the glass, it often tastes different than when you started, and that’s what makes it special.
Make It Your Own: Variations and Tips
Like many cocktails, the Penicillin is open to your own interpretation. Here are some fun ideas to change it up a bit.
- Try a Different Base Whisky: Switch things around by using Irish whiskey for a lighter taste or bourbon for a richer feel. For a bold choice, use Laphroaig or Lagavulin as the base — it’s strong but in a good way.
- Get Creative with Fruit Muddle some fresh pineapple in the shaker for a tropical twist, or add a splash of orange bitters for some extra flavor.
- Mix in Some Herbs: Toss a sprig of rosemary into your shaker for a savory note, or swap out the garnish for a charred lemon wheel for an added smoky scent.
- Spice Things Up: Consider using chili-infused honey for a fiery kick or add a small slice of fresh ginger into the shaker for more zing.
Best Food Pairings and Presentation Ideas
The Penicillin can be enjoyed before dinner or after. Here are a few pairing suggestions to elevate your drinking experience:
Food Ideas:
– Smoked salmon bites to echo the whisky’s smokiness
– Chargrilled lamb skewers that match the honey and ginger warmth
– Soft cheeses like brie or camembert to offer a creamy contrast
– Dark chocolate with ginger for a delightful dessert duo
Presentation Tips:
– Serve over a large ice cube or sphere for a slow melt.
– Use a vintage crystal glass to blend old and new styles.
– Add edible flowers or ginger sugar rims to impress at your next gathering.
Can the Penicillin Really Cure a Cold?
While it’s not an actual medicine, some of the ingredients in the Penicillin have reputations for easing cold symptoms:
- Honey: Known for soothing sore throats.
- Ginger: Has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Lemon: High in vitamin C, which is good for your immune system.
- Whisky: Has antiseptic qualities and can help you relax (and let’s be honest, it can help you sleep better, too).
So no, it’s not a doctor-approved cure, but it might just be the cozy drink you need on a rainy day or when you’re not feeling your best.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try the Penicillin
Not many cocktails can be comforting and stylish at the same time, but the Penicillin does just that.
It’s:
– Simple to quick whip up with what you have at home
– Impressively layered in flavor
– Easy to customize to match your taste
– Perfect whether you’re a whisky expert or just starting
Whether you’re enjoying it on a gloomy evening, sharing it with friends at a gathering, or unwinding after a tough day, the Penicillin brings that touch of luxury you didn’t know you needed.
So, when you feel tempted to stick to your usual drink or just mix another gin and tonic, why not try a Modern Penicillin instead? Your taste buds will surely appreciate the change.
Penicillin Cocktail Recipe Recap
– 60 mL blended Scotch whisky
– 20 mL lemon juice
– 20 mL honey-ginger syrup
– 7 mL peated whisky float
Shake it up, strain over ice, float the peat, and don’t forget to garnish with candid ginger!
Thanks for joining us behind the bar!
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Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/
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