Bobby Burns (drink)

Bobby Burns is a classic cocktail named after the famous Scottish poet, Robert Burns. It is a warming, spirit-forward cocktail that is typically enjoyed in the colder months. The Bobby Burns cocktail is traditionally made with Scotch whisky, sweet vermouth, and Bénédictine, a herbal liqueur.

History

The Bobby Burns cocktail is believed to have been first published in the 1930 book, The Savoy Cocktail Book, by Harry Craddock. However, the origins of the cocktail are unclear, and it is not known whether it was named directly after Robert Burns or if the name is a coincidence.

Preparation

To prepare a Bobby Burns cocktail, combine 2 ounces of Scotch whisky, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and a teaspoon of Bénédictine in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir the ingredients until well chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass. The cocktail is traditionally garnished with a lemon twist.

Variations

There are several variations of the Bobby Burns cocktail. Some recipes call for the addition of Angostura bitters, while others replace the Scotch whisky with bourbon or rye whiskey. The type of Scotch used can also greatly affect the flavor of the cocktail, with peaty Scotches giving a smoky flavor and sherry-cask Scotches adding a sweet, fruity note.

See also

• List of cocktails
• Robert Burns
• Scotch whisky
• Vermouth
• Bénédictine