Penicillin Cocktail Recipe

I recently put together this killer cocktail that mixes a smooth blended scotch with a tangy splash of fresh lemon and a sweet yet spicy honey ginger syrup, and then tops it off with a cheeky float of Islay single malt that completely elevates the chill vibes for any laid-back night out.

I love this amazing Penicillin Cocktail that balances smoky scotch with fresh citrus and a sweet honey ginger kick. I definitely think the blend of ice-chilled whisky, tangy lemon, and a float of peaty single malt offers rich flavor, slight vitamin C benefits, and is elegantly garnished with candied ginger.

Ingredients

• 2 oz blended Scotch whisky: Smooth spirit adds body and depth, lacking protein and fiber.
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  75 oz fresh lemon juice: Tart, vitamin C-rich juice that brightens the cocktail.

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  75 oz honey ginger syrup: Sweet, spicy mix that adds flavor and natural sweetness.

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  25 oz Islay single malt Scotch whisky (float): Smoky finish lifts the cocktail aroma.

• Ice cubes: Help mix and chill the drink, offering no nutritional benefits.
• Candied ginger: Adds spicy spark and a decorative touch, with a hint of sweetness.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 oz blended Scotch whisky
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz honey ginger syrup
• 0.25 oz Islay single malt Scotch whisky (used as a float)
• Ice cubes
• Candied ginger (for garnish, if you want)

How to Make this

1. Start by filling a cocktail shaker with plenty of ice cubes.

2. Pour 2 oz of blended scotch whisky, 0.75 oz of fresh lemon juice and 0.75 oz of honey ginger syrup into the shaker.

3. Shake the mix really well until it gets nice and cold.

4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice cubes.

5. Slowly pour 0.25 oz of Islay single malt scotch over a spoon so it floats on top.

6. If you like, you can gently stir a bit to combine the layers or leave it for a layered look.

7. Garnish with a piece of candied ginger if you want an extra kick.

8. Enjoy your cocktail, but remember to drink responsibly!

Equipment Needed

1. Cocktail shaker (a shaker with a built-in strainer works best)
2. Measuring jigger (for getting the right amount of whisky, lemon juice and syrup)
3. Ice cube tray (to make plenty of ice cubes for chilling)
4. Cocktail glass (your serving glass; something like a rocks glass is good)
5. Bar spoon (this helps you layer the Islay whisky and stir the mix if you want)

FAQ

• What is honey ginger syrup? Its a mix of honey and ginger that adds a nice sweet and spicy kick, and its super easy to make at home.
• Can I use a different whisky? Sure you can, but the Penicillin cocktail relies on the balance of the blended Scotch and the smoky Islay single malt, so other whiskies might alter the flavor.
• Why do I float Islay single malt on top? Floating that whisky on top of the drink gives it a layered aroma and flavor that changes as you sip, making the cocktail more interesting.
• Do I really need ice cubes? Absolutely, using enough ice keeps the cocktail properly chilled and diluted just enough to bring out the flavors.
• Is the candied ginger necessary for garnish? Not at all, its optional, but tossing one on top adds a touch of flair and a hint of extra spice if you like.

Penicillin Cocktail Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• 2 oz blended Scotch whisky – try using bourbon or even a smoother Irish whiskey if you want a sweeter, less smoky profile.
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice – you could substitute with fresh lime juice for a slightly different but still refreshing citrus kick.
• 0.75 oz honey ginger syrup – if you cant get that, mix equal parts honey with a bit of ginger juice or even ginger-infused simple syrup to work as a good replacement.
• 0.25 oz Islay single malt Scotch whisky (for the float) – if you dont have an Islay, use a few drops of smoky mezcal to mimic that peaty flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Try and always use real fresh lemon juice instead of bottled stuff cuz it gives the drink that extra bright, zippy kick.
2. Chill your glass in the freezer for a little bit before you pour in the cocktail; it keeps your drink colder for longer and makes it taste way better.
3. When you pour the Islay scotch, do it super slowly over the back of a spoon so it floats on top nice and pretty.
4. Consider making your own honey ginger syrup if you have some extra time at home; homemade syrup just tastes so much richer and fresher.