Rusty Nail (Scotch and Drambuie Cocktail) Recipe

The rusty nail is the ultimate scotch cocktail. It’s a very simple mixture of just two ingredients—scotch and Drambuie—and served on the rocks in an old-fashioned glass. It is designed to be a sophisticated, slow-sipping drink, and it’s excellent after dinner.

Why Is It Called a Rusty Nail?

Like many cocktail stories, the true origin of the rusty nail is lost to history. There are speculations, including that it was introduced in 1937 at the British Industries Fair in a version that also included a dash of bitters. Another account credits its invention to Manhattan’s 21 Club (possibly in the ’60s), where the B&B is also said to have originated.

It’s also unclear when and why the cocktail took its name. One common tale says that it was originally stirred with a rusty nail, while another attributes it to the drink’s color. One thing that is not up for debate is that this was a preferred drink for the Rat Pack (Frank Sinatra’s gang of five) and they helped its rise to fame.

What’s the Best Scotch for a Rusty Nail?

Blended Scotch whisky is typically used in the rusty nail. Choose a mid- to high-end Scotch, such as Famous Grouse and save the cheaper bottles for other drinks. Don’t worry, you will not be wasting a great scotch by mixing it into a rusty nail.

Just because blended is preferred, however, don’t rule out a single malt scotch; this drink enhances every regional nuance of Scotch wonderfully. It’s a perfect mixed drink for testing new bottles. You can also swap out scotch for another type of whiskey.

What Exactly Is Drambuie—and Can You Substitute Another Liqueur?

Drambuie is a proprietary liqueur recipe of honey and spices with a scotch base, and its taste is unlike any other liqueur on the market. There’s no great substitute and, if replaced, your cocktail will no longer be a true rusty nail.

The closest liqueur alternative is Glayva, though it’s softer, and Chivas Regal’s Lochan Ora, which has been discontinued. Neither of those is as easy to find as Drambuie, which is a smart bottle to have in your bar. Not only can you enjoy a rusty nail any time you please, but Drambuie can also be useful in a variety of other cocktails. Plus, it is fabulous on its own or with ginger ale.

Rusty Nail Tips

• Garnish if you’d like: Although the rusty nail is typically ungarnished, some drinkers like a lemon twist garnish.
• Add a dash of bitters: If you like an herbal edge to your drink, try adding a dash of Angostura bitters.
• Up your ice game: Consider serving it over a slow-melting iceball to reduce dilution and retain the drink’s full flavor.
• Play with the proportions: As with many simple classic cocktails, the proportions of the two ingredients will depend on your personal taste. The 2:1 ratio in the recipe is a good starting point, though many rusty nail fans enjoy 4:1 (2 ounces scotch and 1/2 ounce Drambuie).