Golden, aromatic, and gently smoky, the Penicillin Cocktail is where bold Scotch meets the comforting warmth of honey and ginger. It’s a drink that heals the soul and excites the palate — a modern legend for those who love depth and balance.
Equipment
To craft the perfect Penicillin, gather these bar essentials:
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Cocktail shaker: For mixing and chilling the ingredients.
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Jigger: To measure precisely.
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Strainer: For a clean pour.
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Rocks glass: The traditional choice.
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Ice cubes or one large cube: To keep it cool and balanced.
Ingredients
Each ingredient plays a vital role in shaping the Penicillin’s distinctive character:
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2 oz blended Scotch whisky — Smooth and mellow foundation.
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0.75 oz fresh lemon juice — Adds tartness and balance.
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0.75 oz honey-ginger syrup (see below) — Sweetness with a gentle spice.
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0.25 oz Islay single malt Scotch (optional float) — Adds depth and smoke.
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Ice cubes — For shaking and serving.
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Garnish: Candied ginger or lemon wheel.
To make honey-ginger syrup:
Combine ½ cup honey, ½ cup water, and a few slices of fresh ginger in a small pan. Simmer for 5–10 minutes, then strain and cool.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make a perfectly balanced Penicillin:
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Add blended Scotch, lemon juice, and honey-ginger syrup into a cocktail shaker with ice.
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Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until chilled.
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Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice or one large cube.
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Gently float Islay Scotch on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
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Garnish with candied ginger or a lemon wheel.
Tasting Notes
The Penicillin Cocktail offers a warming, multi-layered flavor experience — smoky, sweet, and slightly tangy.
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Aroma: Honey and citrus with a whisper of smoke.
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Color: Golden amber with a soft glow.
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Taste: Bright lemon up front, rounded honey sweetness, and a lingering smoky finish.
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Mouthfeel: Silky, rich, and gently spicy.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy the Penicillin, you might also like these smoky or citrus-forward classics:
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Whiskey Sour: Bourbon, lemon, and simple syrup for a smoother classic.
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Gold Rush: Bourbon with honey and lemon — the Penicillin’s cousin.
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Smoky Old Fashioned: A darker, bolder whisky experience.
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Rusty Nail: Scotch and Drambuie for a honeyed, herbal depth.
History
The Penicillin Cocktail was created in 2005 by Sam Ross, a bartender at Milk & Honey in New York City.
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Ross wanted to craft a Scotch-based sour with depth and balance.
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Inspired by home remedies, he used honey, ginger, and lemon — ingredients long associated with healing.
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The name “Penicillin” humorously reflects its soothing, restorative nature.
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It quickly became one of the most influential modern classics of the 21st century.
Quick Pro Tips
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Use quality Scotch: A blend like Monkey Shoulder or Johnnie Walker works beautifully.
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Homemade syrup: Fresh ginger makes all the difference.
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Float the smoky Scotch carefully: It should sit on top for a dramatic aroma.
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Use clear ice: Enhances both look and flavor clarity.
When to Serve
The Penicillin is a cocktail that shines in cozy, reflective moments — or whenever you want a drink that feels like comfort in a glass.
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Chilly evenings: Perfectly warming and soothing.
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Dinner parties: Impress guests with a modern classic.
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Cold season: Its honey-ginger blend feels naturally restorative.
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After a long day: Smooth and relaxing.
