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Seamus O'Callaghan bartender portrait

The Irish Bartender · Seamus O'Callaghan

Rusty Nail

A sweet spirit-forward built around whiskey, with the classic proportions and service that make the Rusty Nail endure.

“There's enough going on in a Rusty Nail without showing off. Make it cold and leave it be.”
Rusty Nail cocktail served in a rocks glass with optional lemon twist

WHY THIS DRINK WORKS

The Rusty Nail works because Scotch whisky, Drambuie meet in deliberate proportion. Keep the method built, use fresh ice, and give the final garnish enough attention to finish the aroma without distracting from the drink.

Makes1 cocktail
Time3 minutes
GlassRocks glass
FinishOptional lemon twist

Ingredients

  • 2 oz Scotch whisky
  • 1/2 to 3/4 oz Drambuie

Make it

  1. Build in a rocks glass over ice.
  2. Stir gently.
  3. Garnish with lemon twist if desired.

Behind the bar

  • Chill the serving glass while you prepare the drink.

KEEP THE BAR OPEN

Try another round

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