The history of the Rusty Nail

The Rusty Nail is mentioned in a 1967 edition of the „Old Mister Boston Official Bartender’s Guide“, a cocktail book from the 20th century after Prohibition. Furthermore, the Rusty Nail is increasingly attributed to the bartenders of the „21 Club“ in Manhattan, which opened in the early 1960s. It was also a very popular cocktail at P.J. Clarke’s, a favorite bar of Frank Sinatra.

As with many classics, the recipe varies widely. Cocktail author Ted Haigh prefers two parts Scotch to one part Drambuie, as described in his book „Vintage Spirits and Forgotten Cocktails“. „Old Mister Boston Official Bartender’s Guide“ calls for a ratio of one to one. Many modern versions suggest four parts whisky to one part Drambuie. I prefer the two to one method according to Ted Haigh.

DRAMBUIE – THE HONEY-WHISKY LIQUEUR

Drambuie is a whisky liqueur made from Scotch, honey, spices and herbs. Its origins are said to go back to a secret recipe developed for Bonnie Prince Charlie by his royal apothecary in the 18th century. The name Drambuie is derived from the Scottish Gaelic „An Dram Buidheach“ and means „the drink that satisfies“.
As the Rusty Nail is effectively the trademark cocktail for the Drambuie, there is no substitute. But it also belongs in every well-stocked bar.

THE SCOTCH

Most recipes are based on a blended scotch. In general, blended Scotches are used more often in cocktails than single malt whiskies. Of course, this is often a question of price, because blended Scotch whiskies are on average somewhat cheaper than their single malt counterparts.
In the end, I opted for the Jura 10 Years Single Malt. Certainly not an insider tip, but nevertheless an equal partner for the Drambuie liqueur. I like these notes of what I call „dried fruit“ and „caramel“, which are really fun in combination with the honey and herbs of the Drambuie.

A little follow-up: If you still want to opt for a blended Scotch, I recommend the Shackleton Blended Malt Whisky.

More Whiskey cocktails?!

I am also on Instagram. Just drop in…

My Instagram channel. Here you can find all of my recipes. Constantly updated whether you are an experienced home bartender or a newcomer to the cocktail scene. I got a drink for everyone.