Whiskey Cocktails · Classic Recipe

Rusty Nail

A complete, easy-to-follow recipe for the Rusty Nail, including ingredients, method, glassware, and the story behind the drink.

At a Glance

Category: Whiskey Cocktails
Glass: Rocks glass
Garnish: Lemon twist

Ingredients

1.5 oz Scotch whisky
0.75 oz Drambuie (honeyed Scotch liqueur)

Method

Build over ice in a glass and stir gently.

Glass & Garnish

Glass: Rocks glass
Garnish: Lemon twist

Background & History

Popularized in the 1960s, its simple two-ingredient format (Scotch plus a Scotch-based honey liqueur) made it a favorite of the era's celebrity drinking culture, including Frank Sinatra's circle.

For more on this, see Cocktail Recipe Directory and Whiskey Cocktails.