The Rusty Nail emerged in post-war cocktail culture as a simple yet sophisticated pairing of Scotch whisky and Drambuie, a honeyed Scotch liqueur; credited to the mid-20th century and popularized in cocktail bars from London to New York, it epitomizes Scottish flavors with a sweet herbal backbone. A great Rusty Nail balances smoky or floral Scotch with the spiced honey of Drambuie and is best served over a single large ice cube in a low rocks glass to control dilution. For a reliable house version, use a blended or single malt with character but not overpowering peat; order it at Buffalo or pick ingredients from our store to taste before you mix.
Ingredients
| 1 ½ oz | blended or single malt Scotch whisky |
| ¾ oz | Drambuie (Scotch honey-liqueur) |
| 1 tsp | lemon twist (expressed oils, garnish) |
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with plenty of ice.
- Add 1.5 oz blended or single malt Scotch and 0.75 oz Drambuie to the mixing glass.
- Stir briskly for 20–30 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over a single large ice cube.
- Express a lemon twist over the surface, rub the rim with the peel, and drop it into the glass as garnish.
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Pick up everything you need at Buffalo House Liquor & Wines in Tonawanda, NY — same-day delivery across Buffalo, Kenmore, Williamsville, and surrounding areas, or grab them in-store.
Scotch for Rusty Nails
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