📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Scotch
Alcohol 20%
Calories 215 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0.1g
Carbohydrates 14g
Prep time 5 minutes
Who doesn’t love the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and smoky in a refreshing drink? The Penicillin cocktail is a modern classic that combines Scotch whisky, honey, ginger, and lemon to deliver a delightful experience. In this feature, we’ll unravel the history, the unique taste, and the art of making a Penicillin, ensuring you’re armed with all the knowledge to enjoy this delicious concoction. So let’s dive in together and explore the essence of the Penicillin cocktail. ⬇️
History
The Penicillin cocktail was created in the mid-2000s by a bartender named Sam Ross at a New York bar called Milk & Honey. It quickly became a hit for its creative use of Scotch and its deliciously healing qualities. The drink stands as a testament to the innovation within modern mixology.
- The name ‘Penicillin’ is a playful nod to the medicinal ingredients like honey and ginger, which are commonly associated with home remedies for the cold.
- Its creation marked a resurgence in the popularity of Scotch-based cocktails in the American bar scene.
- The cocktail’s success spurred a trend of using classic spirits in new ways, inspiring bartenders worldwide.
The taste of a Penicillin?
A Penicillin tastes like a cozy hug on a rainy day. It’s a blend of smoky, sweet, and citrus flavors that dance on your palate, leaving you with a warming ginger finish.
I personally enjoy Penicillin because it’s the perfect mix of comfort and sophistication, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Interesting facts about Penicillin
- The Penicillin cocktail is often associated with the craft cocktail movement of the early 21st century.
- Some enthusiasts consider the Penicillin part of a cocktail category known as “modern classics.”
- Despite its name, the Penicillin cocktail does not contain any actual penicillin or pharmaceutical ingredients.
Ingredients
- Blended Scotch whisky: 2 oz (60ml)
- Single malt Scotch: 1/4 oz (7.5ml)
- Fresh lemon juice: 3/4 oz (22ml)
- Honey-ginger syrup: 3/4 oz (22ml)
- Candied ginger: for garnish
**Rocks glass** is the quintessential vessel for a Penicillin, as its wide brim allows the smoky aroma to envelop the senses. An alternative like the **Old Fashioned glass** is also suitable, providing a similar sensory experience.
Recipe. How to make Penicillin
- Muddle the candied ginger in the bottom of the mixing glass and add 2 oz of blended Scotch whisky.
- Combine 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice and 3/4 oz of honey-ginger syrup into the mixture.
- Shake the ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled **rocks glass** filled with fresh ice.
- Float 1/4 oz of single malt Scotch on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
- Garnish with a piece of candied ginger on the rim of the glass.
Penicillin cocktails, while delicious, can be quite sweet. If you’re watching your sugar intake, opt for natural sweeteners or reduce the honey in the syrup. On the flip side, the ginger and lemon can offer some digestive and vitamin C benefits, respectively.
Food Pairings
The Penicillin’s bold flavors can complement a variety of foods, enhancing the dining experience. Here are some pairings that marry well with its distinct notes:
Grilled Meats
The smokiness of the Scotch in a Penicillin harmonizes with the char from grilled meats. The sweet and tangy elements of the cocktail also help to cut through the richness of the dish.
Cheese Platter
A variety of cheeses, especially aged ones, can find a friend in the Penicillin. The cocktail’s ginger and honey notes contrast beautifully with the creamy, salty profiles of the cheese.
Chocolate Desserts
The Penicillin’s boldness can stand up to the intensity of chocolate. Its citrusy undertone provides a refreshing counterbalance to the sweetness of chocolate-based desserts.
I just adore the harmony of flavors in a Penicillin—the way the ginger tickles the throat and the honey soothes it all over again.
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Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor and perfect acidity balance.
- Experiment with different types of honey in the syrup to add unique flavor profiles.
- To enhance the smoky dimension, try a peatier single malt Scotch for the float.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Penicillin, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Penicillin
- Honey-ginger syrup: Can be homemade or store-bought, adjust the sweetness to taste.
- Single malt Scotch: Experiment with different regions to find your preferred smokiness level.
- Lemon juice: Fresh is best, but in a pinch, quality bottled juice can work too.
Penicillin Variations
Smoky Joe
- Ingredients: Substitute blended Scotch with mezcal for a smokier twist.
- Recipe: Follow the original Penicillin recipe, replacing the Scotch with equal parts mezcal.
Honey Bee
- Ingredients: Use bourbon instead of Scotch and add a dash of orange bitters.
- Recipe: Mix all ingredients and serve over ice in a rocks glass with an orange twist.
Spiced Penicillin
- Ingredients: Add a cinnamon stick and use spiced honey in the syrup.
- Recipe: Muddle the cinnamon stick with ginger before adding the rest of the ingredients.
A non-alcoholic version, or ‘Virgin Penicillin,’ is simple to make. Replace the Scotch with a smoky tea like Lapsang Souchong and adjust the honey and lemon to taste.
Q&A
Can I make Penicillin without alcohol?
Absolutely, you can enjoy a Virgin Penicillin by substituting the Scotch with a smoky tea or even a non-alcoholic spirit.
Is Penicillin a strong cocktail?
It can be, depending on the Scotch you use. It’s balanced by the honey and lemon, though, which mellow the drink’s strength.
How can I make my Penicillin less sweet?
Easy! Just reduce the amount of honey-ginger syrup or replace some of the honey with a sugar alternative.
What’s the best way to garnish a Penicillin?
A piece of candied ginger or a lemon twist is traditional, but feel free to get creative!
Can I use any type of Scotch for Penicillin?
While any Scotch can work, a blend is typically used for the base and a peaty single malt for the float to achieve the signature flavor.
Is the Penicillin cocktail good for colds?
While it’s not a cure, the honey and ginger have soothing properties that might help with cold symptoms. Always drink responsibly and consider health advice from professionals.
