Re-Discover The Rusty Nail, Frank Sinatra's Favorite Cocktail

The Rusty Nail is a classic old school cocktail. So old school it was purportedly Frank Sinatra's favorite. This two-ingredient drink's appeal lies in the harmonious marriage of Scotch whisky's robust character and the distinctive sweet, herbal, and subtly spiced notes of Drambuie, a Scotch whisky liqueur infused with honey, herbs, and spices. This combination creates a drink that is both warming and complex, making it an excellent choice for contemplative sipping or as a refined digestif.

Rusty Nail Ingredients

• 2 oz Scotch Whisky
• 3/4 oz Drambuie
• Lemon peel (for garnish)

How to Make a Rusty Nail

1. Fill a rocks glass with ice.
2. Pour in the Scotch whisky.
3. Add the Drambuie.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lemon peel.

The quality of the Scotch significantly impacts the final drink. Opting for a blended Scotch offers a smoother profile, while a single malt can introduce more pronounced regional characteristics. The ratio of Scotch to Drambuie can be adjusted to personal preference, with some preferring a slightly drier drink by reducing the Drambuie.

Rusty Nail Riff

To create a "Smoky Rusty Nail," use a peated Scotch whisky like Lagavulin or Ardbeg. For a sweeter version, add a dash of orange bitters. Experiment with different Scotch whiskies to discover your favorite flavor profile.