Rusty Nail cocktail in a rocks glass — Drambuie

Rusty Nail Cocktail Recipe

boozy sweet herbal

scotch whisky, drambuie

History

The Rusty Nail is a simple, sophisticated Scotch classic. The combination of Scotch whisky and Drambuie first appeared in the late 1930s, but the drink found its name and lasting fame in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Strongly associated with the Rat Pack and New York’s 21 Club, it became the ultimate mid-century digestif—honeyed, herbal, and effortlessly cool. Two ingredients, stirred over ice, and still one of the most elegant ways to enjoy Scotch.

Ingredients

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How to make

  1. Add Scotch whisky and Drambuie to a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Stir until well chilled.
  3. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
  4. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Glassware

Rocks glass

Short and sturdy for spirit-forward drinks served on ice — easy to hold, stir, and sip without watering down too fast.

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Rocks glass glassware

Rusty Nail FAQ

What ingredients are in a Rusty Nail?

A Rusty Nail is made with scotch whisky and drambuie. Amounts and pantry matching are in the ingredients list on this page.

How do you make a Rusty Nail?

Add Scotch whisky and Drambuie to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a lemon twist.

What glass do you serve a Rusty Nail in?

Serve a Rusty Nail in a Rocks glass. Short and sturdy for spirit-forward drinks served on ice — easy to hold, stir, and sip without watering down too fast.

Can I make a Rusty Nail with bottles I already own?

Add your spirits and mixers in Pantry. My Cocktail Pantry will show whether this Rusty Nail is ready to mix or which ingredients you are missing.

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