
With its smoky aroma, a hint of zesty lemon, and the warmth of ginger and honey, the Penicillin cocktail isn’t just a drink—it’s an experience waiting to be savored. The tangy pop of fresh lemon juice meets the mellow sweetness of honey-ginger syrup, while the smoky Islay scotch floats on top like a wisp of campfire smoke.
This modern classic, created by Australian bartender Sam Ross, has become a staple in cocktail bars across the United States—and for good reason. Whether you're nursing a sore throat or simply craving a sophisticated whiskey drink, this cocktail brings bold flavors, nostalgic comfort, and a dash of elegance to your glass.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Balanced Flavor Profile: The perfect blend of smoky, sweet, tangy, and spicy.
- Easy to Make at Home: No need to hit up fancy cocktail bars—this recipe is straightforward, especially with homemade honey-ginger syrup.
- A Modern Classic: Hailing from New York City’s Little Branch, this cocktail is a sophisticated twist on the classic whisky sour.
- Versatile and Nostalgic: Ideal for cozy nights or impressing guests at your next gathering.
The Story and Culture Behind the Penicillin Cocktail
Back in 2005, in the bustling cocktail scene of New York City, the Penicillin cocktail was born, thanks to bartender Sam Ross and his knack for turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. While working at the iconic Little Branch bar, Ross took inspiration from the good ol’ whisky sour, but instead of stopping there, he decided to give it a glow-up. Drawing on the soothing magic of ginger tea—because, let’s face it, we’ve all reached for that mug when our throats feel like sandpaper—he added honey for sweetness and a splash of lemon juice for a zingy kick.
But here’s where Ross’s brilliance really shines: he took this comforting concoction and gave it a rebellious edge with a float of smoky Islay scotch. That single bold move turned a humble, cozy drink into a sophisticated cocktail with layers of complexity.
And the name? A cheeky nod to its “healing” properties—because whether you’re battling a sore throat or just need a pick-me-up after a Monday that felt like a week, the Penicillin cocktail has your back. It’s pure comfort in a glass—with a boozy twist.

Equipment List
- Cocktail Shaker: Essential for thoroughly mixing and chilling the ingredients.
- Hawthorne Strainer: Ensures a smooth pour without ice shards.
- Rocks Glass: The traditional vessel for serving scotch cocktails.
- Cheesecloth: Perfect for straining the ginger-honey syrup to achieve a silky texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Recipe
- Blended Scotch: A smooth, versatile base for the cocktail.
- Islay Single Malt Scotch: Adds a signature smoky flavor when floated on top.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the drink and balances the sweetness.
- Honey-Ginger Syrup: A homemade staple that combines spicy ginger juice with sweet honey for a rich, tangy touch.
- Candied Ginger: Not just a garnish, but a sweet and spicy treat.
How to Make the Penicillin Cocktail
Prepare the Honey-Ginger Syrup
- Combine honey, water, and fresh ginger in a saucepan.
- Heat on high until boiling, then simmer for 5 minutes.
- Steep overnight in the refrigerator to fully infuse the flavors.
- Strain through cheesecloth into an airtight container.
Mix the Cocktail
Garnish with candied ginger and serve immediately.
Add blended scotch, fresh lemon juice, and honey-ginger syrup to a shaker.
Fill with ice and shake until well-chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
Carefully float the Islay single malt scotch on top using the back of a spoon.
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Chef Secrets & Tips: Elevating Your Penicillin Cocktail
Balancing Flavors Like a Pro
The secret to a truly exceptional Penicillin cocktail starts with the honey-ginger syrup. Its balance of sweetness and spice is the backbone of this drink. Before using, taste the syrup to ensure the flavors are harmonious. If it leans too sweet (a common pitfall), brighten it with a splash of fresh ginger juice. You can make this quickly by grating ginger and pressing it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. This extra zing enhances the cocktail's complexity, cutting through the sweetness and amplifying its spicy undertones.
The Art of the Perfect Float
The smoky layer of Islay scotch on top of the cocktail isn’t just for show—it’s a key part of the flavor experience, providing a distinctive aroma and depth to each sip. To achieve that perfect float, reach for a bar spoon. Hold it just above the surface of the drink, convex side up, and pour the scotch slowly over the back of the spoon. This technique diffuses the liquid gently, allowing it to settle on top. Rushing this step might mix the scotch into the drink, losing its dramatic visual and aromatic effect. Practice patience, and your float will impress even the pickiest of cocktail aficionados.
Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Impact
When it comes to citrus, there’s no cutting corners: fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable. Bottled varieties may seem convenient, but they lack the bright acidity and vibrant aroma that make the Penicillin cocktail sing. Squeeze your lemon just before mixing to capture its peak freshness and ensure every sip is crisp and lively. For even better results, roll the lemon on your countertop before cutting—it loosens the juice inside, making extraction easier.
Batch Prep for Effortless Entertaining
Honey-ginger syrup isn’t just for Penicillin cocktails—it’s a versatile ingredient that can elevate other drinks like a hot toddy, iced tea, or even a mocktail. Make a double or triple batch, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. For busy nights or hosting gatherings, having this syrup prepped in advance means you can whip up cocktails quickly without compromising on quality. A bonus: the syrup also makes a soothing addition to a cup of hot water when you’re feeling under the weather.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Syrup Too Thick? If your honey-ginger syrup has thickened too much after cooling, add a small amount of warm water and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Overpowering Smokiness? Not all Islay scotches are created equal. If the smokiness is overwhelming, experiment with blending your Islay with a lighter single malt to tone it down while retaining its distinctive character.
- Dilution Drama? Shaking the cocktail for too long can over-dilute the drink, while too short a shake leaves it overly strong and unbalanced. Aim for 10–15 seconds of vigorous shaking, or until the shaker is frosty to the touch.
Insider Secrets for the Home Bartender
- Chill the Glass: A cold rocks glass helps maintain the cocktail’s perfect temperature longer. Pop your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring.
- Enhance Aromas: Before garnishing with candied ginger, try rubbing a twist of lemon peel around the rim of the glass to add an extra burst of citrus aroma with each sip.
- Up Your Ginger Game: For even more intense ginger flavor, toast the sliced ginger lightly in a dry skillet before adding it to the syrup mixture. The toasting process brings out caramelized notes that deepen the syrup’s complexity.
These small but impactful techniques will elevate your Penicillin cocktail from great to unforgettable. With a little care and attention, you’ll craft a drink that’s perfectly balanced, visually stunning, and utterly delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the Penicillin cocktail with cozy appetizers like bacon-wrapped dates or a hearty cheese and charcuterie board. For dessert, try a slice of ginger spice cake or warm apple crisp to complement the drink’s smoky and spicy notes.
Best Season or Occasion
This cocktail shines during fall and winter, thanks to its warming ingredients and rich flavor. It’s perfect for holiday parties, cozy nights by the fire, or impressing friends during a casual cocktail hour.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I make this non-alcoholic?
Yes! Replace the scotch with ginger tea and a dash of smoky lapsang souchong tea for a similar flavor profile.
What if I don’t have Islay scotch?
Any smoky scotch will work, but for the authentic experience, stick with an Islay variety.
How long does the honey-ginger syrup last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Honey-Ginger Syrup: Keep refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
- Pre-Mixed Cocktail: Avoid mixing in advance; instead, prep ingredients separately and combine when ready to serve.
This recipe proves that even a whiskey sour can go from basic to brilliant with a little creativity and some smoky Islay scotch. Whether you’re a seasoned home bartender or just dipping your toes into the world of scotch cocktails, the Penicillin is your perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. Cheers!

More Classic Cocktail Recipes
If you’re a fan of classic cocktails like the Penicillin, there’s a whole world of iconic drinks waiting to be explored. Each offers a unique flavor profile and timeless charm.

French Martini: A sophisticated blend of vodka, pineapple juice, and raspberry liqueur, this cocktail is fruity, smooth, and undeniably chic.

The Godfather: Equal parts scotch and amaretto come together in this simple yet indulgent drink with a smooth, nutty sweetness.

Moscow Mule: Refreshingly fizzy with vodka, ginger beer, and a splash of lime, this crowd-pleaser is served ice-cold in its signature copper mug.

Whiskey Sour: A tangy mix of whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup, this drink is as versatile as it is classic, often topped with a frothy egg white.

Tom Collins: Gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water combine for a bright and bubbly cocktail that’s perfect for warm days.

Bourbon Old Fashioned: A timeless favorite, this drink highlights bourbon’s rich, oaky flavors with a hint of sugar, bitters, and an orange twist.

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Penicillin Cocktail
Ingredients
Ingredients for the Cocktail
- 2 ounces blended scotch
- ¾ ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ¾ ounce honey-ginger syrup see recipe below
- ¼ ounce Islay single malt scotch
- Garnish: candied ginger
Ingredients for Honey-Ginger Syrup
- 1 cup honey
- ½ cup water
- 1 (6-inch) piece fresh ginger peeled and sliced or grated
Instructions
Make the Honey-Ginger Syrup
- Combine honey, water, and sliced or grated ginger in a saucepan.
- Heat over high heat until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and allow the mixture to steep in the refrigerator overnight.
- Strain the syrup using cheesecloth and store in an airtight container.
Prepare the Cocktail
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Carefully pour the Islay single malt scotch over the back of a spoon to float it on top of the drink.
- Garnish with a piece of candied ginger and serve.
Nutrition
*Nutrition information is automatically calculated based on ingredient data and should be considered an estimate. When multiple ingredient options are provided, the first listed is used for calculation. Optional ingredients and garnishes are not included in the nutrition analysis.
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