Penicillin Cocktail Recipe: If you’re someone who loves a cocktail that walks the line between bold and soothing, smoky and sweet, then the Penicillin cocktail is about to become your new favorite.
It’s the kind of drink that feels equally fitting for cozy nights and elegant evenings. Created in the early 2000s, this modern classic has already secured a solid spot on many cocktail menus around the world.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to visit a speakeasy to enjoy it. With a few simple ingredients and tools, you can master this drink at home.
Why You’ll Love This Cocktail
The Penicillin cocktail is like the grown-up version of your favorite ginger-lemon tea—only way cooler. It’s got the zing from fresh ginger, the brightness of lemon, the warmth of honey, and that undeniable smokiness from Islay Scotch. The result? A perfectly balanced, flavorful drink that feels both refreshing and comforting. Whether you’re feeling a bit under the weather or just want something to sip while relaxing, this cocktail ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with ingredients you probably already have or can grab in one grocery trip.
History of the Penicillin Cocktail
Origin and Creator
This cocktail wasn’t named after the antibiotic for nothing. It was designed to be soothing, almost medicinal—but in the most delicious way possible. The Penicillin cocktail was invented by bartender Sam Ross in the early 2000s at the iconic Milk & Honey bar in New York City. Ross, who’s also known for other hit drinks like the Paper Plane, wanted to create a drink that combined bold Scotch with soothing natural flavors.
The Modern Classic Era
What makes the Penicillin a “modern classic” is how quickly it gained popularity after its creation. In a world of sugary mixers and neon drinks, this cocktail stood out for its complexity and depth. It wasn’t long before it was being copied in bars across the globe, often with slight tweaks but always with that unmistakable flavor profile. If you’re into cocktails with character, the Penicillin should be right at the top of your list.
What Does the Penicillin Cocktail Taste Like?
Imagine the crisp, citrusy brightness of lemonade fused with the spicy kick of ginger and the smooth, warm sweetness of honey. Now add a smoky, earthy finish courtesy of a float of peated Scotch whisky. That’s the Penicillin in a nutshell. The balance is what makes it truly magical. It’s not overly sweet, not too sharp, and the smoke doesn’t overpower—it just lingers like a whisper at the end of each sip. It’s comfort in a glass but with enough edge to keep things interesting.
Occasions to Serve a Penicillin Cocktail
Wondering when to break out the Penicillin? Here are some perfect moments:
- Cold Weather Evenings: Its warming ingredients make it ideal for chilly nights.
- After-Dinner Sip: It’s smooth and soothing enough to be a great digestif.
- Cocktail Parties: It’s unique enough to impress your guests.
- Feeling Under the Weather: Not a cure, but it sure feels like one.
It’s versatile, elegant, and just the right amount of unexpected.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s get down to business—here’s everything you’ll need to create the perfect Penicillin cocktail.
Scotch Whisky (Blended or Smooth Single Malt)
This is your base spirit. Look for a Scotch that’s mellow and slightly sweet—something that won’t overpower the other flavors.
Islay Scotch (Peated Scotch for the Float)
This is the smoky star of the show. Used as a float on top, it gives the drink its signature aroma and finish. Think of it as the “seasoning” that elevates everything else.
Fresh Lemon Juice
Always use fresh lemon juice. The bottled stuff just doesn’t give the same bright zing. You’ll need about 3/4 oz for one cocktail.
Honey Syrup
This is just honey diluted with a little hot water to make it mixable. It adds warmth and sweetness to balance the tartness of the lemon and the spice from the ginger.
Fresh Ginger
This adds that spicy kick that makes the Penicillin stand out. You’ll need to muddle or shake it into the drink to release its bold flavor.
Ice
You’ll use ice to shake the cocktail and also to serve. Crushed or large cubes—your choice.
Bar Tools You’ll Need
Before we mix, make sure you’ve got the right tools:
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger (for measuring)
- Fine strainer or mesh sieve
- Muddler or spoon (for ginger)
- Citrus juicer
- Rocks glass (for serving)
With these in hand, you’re ready to get shaking.
How to Make a Penicillin Cocktail – Step-by-Step Guide
Let’s break down the process in easy-to-follow steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Honey-Ginger Syrup
You’ll want to do this before anything else. Here’s how:
- Peel and finely slice about 1 inch of fresh ginger.
- Add the ginger to a saucepan with 1/2 cup honey and 1/2 cup water.
- Simmer for 5–10 minutes, then strain out the ginger.
- Let it cool. Store in the fridge for up to a week.
Pro tip: You can make a larger batch and use it for tea, lemonade, or more cocktails later!
Step 2: Juice Your Lemons Fresh
Roll the lemon on your counter to get more juice out, then cut and squeeze it. You’ll need about 3/4 oz per cocktail. Always use a strainer to keep seeds out of your drink.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Into your shaker, add:
- 2 oz blended Scotch
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz honey-ginger syrup
If you’re going for bold flavor, you can also muddle a slice of fresh ginger before shaking.
Step 4: Shake with Ice
Fill your shaker with ice and shake hard for 15–20 seconds. You want the mixture to be chilled and slightly diluted—this helps all the flavors come together beautifully.
Step 5: Strain and Serve
Double strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. This keeps out any bits of ginger or pulp from the lemon.
Step 6: Float the Peated Scotch on Top
Take 1/4 oz of Islay Scotch and slowly pour it over the back of a spoon so it floats on top. This gives that final smoky punch when you take a sip. Don’t skip this step—it’s what makes the Penicillin magic.
Tips for the Best Penicillin Cocktail
Want to take your cocktail from good to legendary? Here are some tried-and-true tips to elevate your Penicillin experience:
- Use High-Quality Scotch: This isn’t the time to go for the bottom shelf. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but choose a smooth blended Scotch for the base and a smoky Islay for the float. The better the Scotch, the richer the taste.
- Balance is Key: If your drink tastes too sweet, add a little more lemon juice. If it’s too tart, add a bit more honey syrup. The beauty of the Penicillin lies in its balance, so don’t be afraid to tweak it to your liking.
- Chill Your Glass: Throw some ice in your rocks glass while you prep the drink to keep everything frosty when serving.
- Double Strain: Ginger bits and pulp can ruin the smooth texture of your drink. Use a fine mesh strainer when pouring to get that professional bar-quality result.
- Try with a Smoked Ice Cube: Want to go full-on fancy? Freeze some smoky tea like Lapsang Souchong into ice cubes. It adds even more dimension as it melts.
Substitutes and Variations
Whether you’re missing an ingredient or just want to mix things up, here are some great ways to put a twist on the classic.
Make it Non-Alcoholic
You can absolutely create a mocktail version of the Penicillin. Here’s how:
- Replace the Scotch with a mix of cold smoked tea and apple cider.
- Keep the honey-ginger syrup and fresh lemon juice.
- Shake and serve just like the original.
You’ll still get that smoky, spicy, citrusy kick—minus the alcohol.
Add a Spicy Twist
Love bold flavors? Add a slice of jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne to the shaker. It turns up the heat and gives the drink a real fire-and-ice kind of vibe.
Try It Hot (Hot Penicillin)
Perfect for cold nights or when you feel a cold coming on:
- Use hot water instead of ice
- Stir honey-ginger syrup and lemon juice into the Scotch
- Serve in a mug, not a rocks glass
- Top with a lemon wheel or fresh ginger slice
It’s like adult ginger-lemon tea with a punch!
Garnishing Ideas
Garnishes aren’t just for looks—they add aroma, enhance flavor, and make your drink feel complete. Here are a few to try:
- Candied Ginger Slice – A classic look and a sweet, spicy nibble.
- Lemon Peel Twist – Adds a bright, citrusy fragrance as you sip.
- Fresh Ginger Sliver – Sharp and rustic, great for a minimalist look.
- Smoked Sea Salt Rim – For an ultra-gourmet version.
Choose a garnish that suits the vibe—simple for casual nights, bold for when you’re showing off.
Best Glassware for Serving
Traditionally, the Penicillin is served in a rocks glass over a large cube or standard ice. Here’s why:
- Rocks Glass: Short and sturdy, ideal for sipping cocktails with rich flavor.
- Large Ice Cube: Slower melting means less dilution—perfect for savoring.
You can also try it in a Nick & Nora or tumbler if you’re feeling fancy, but the key is to keep it simple and functional.
Food Pairings with a Penicillin Cocktail
Pairing food with a Penicillin cocktail is easier than you think. Since the drink is bold yet balanced, it works beautifully with:
- Charcuterie Boards: Smoked meats, sharp cheeses, and dried fruits highlight the drink’s smoky and sweet notes.
- Spicy Asian Cuisine: Think Thai or Korean BBQ—the ginger and lemon cut through the heat like a charm.
- Grilled Foods: Smoky flavors echo the Scotch in the drink.
- Honey Glazed Dishes: Pork chops or roasted carrots with a honey glaze complement the honey-ginger syrup perfectly.
It’s also great solo, especially if you’re winding down after a long day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few slip-ups that can throw off your cocktail game:
- Using Bottled Lemon Juice: It lacks the brightness of fresh juice and can throw off the balance.
- Skipping the Islay Float: That smoky Scotch isn’t optional—it’s the soul of the cocktail.
- Using Too Much Ginger: Overpowering the drink with spice makes it harsh. A little goes a long way.
- Not Shaking Properly: A weak shake means poor dilution and uneven flavors.
- Pouring the Islay Too Quickly: Float it gently for that gorgeous, layered effect.
Avoid these, and you’re golden.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Want to prep ahead for a party or save time later? Here’s how to plan ahead without losing freshness:
- Honey-Ginger Syrup: Make a big batch—it lasts up to a week in the fridge. Use it for multiple drinks or even drizzled on pancakes.
- Pre-Mix the Base: Combine the lemon juice, Scotch, and syrup in a bottle and chill. Add ice and float the Islay when serving.
- No Long-Term Storage: Once mixed, don’t store the final cocktail—it loses freshness quickly. Always shake and serve immediately.
FAQs about Penicillin Cocktail Recipe
1. Can I use regular whiskey instead of Scotch in a Penicillin?
Technically, yes—but it won’t taste the same. The smoky flavor from the Scotch, especially the peated Islay float, is what makes the Penicillin unique. Using bourbon or rye might be tasty, but it’ll lose the signature edge that defines this drink.
2. What’s the best substitute for honey-ginger syrup if I’m in a hurry?
If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought honey syrup and add a small piece of muddled fresh ginger directly into the shaker. It’s not quite the same as a simmered syrup, but it’ll get the job done in a pinch.
3. How strong is a Penicillin cocktail?
It’s fairly strong, clocking in at about the same ABV (alcohol by volume) as an Old Fashioned. It contains around 2.25 oz of total spirits, so it’s definitely a sipper rather than a chugger.
4. Can I batch this cocktail for a party?
Absolutely. You can scale up the lemon juice, Scotch, and honey-ginger syrup into a pitcher or bottle. Just shake individual servings with ice when ready and float the Islay Scotch on each glass separately for that signature finish.
5. Why is it called the “Penicillin” cocktail?
The name is a playful nod to its soothing, almost medicinal properties—thanks to the lemon, ginger, and honey. Just like the real antibiotic, the drink is known for its comforting effect, especially when you’re feeling a little under the weather.
Conclusion
From its roots in New York cocktail bars to home kitchens across the globe, the Penicillin has earned its place as a modern classic. It’s versatile, flavorful, and customizable, and it delivers a one-of-a-kind drinking experience every single time. And remember, the secret lies in the details—fresh ingredients, proper balance, and a float of smoky Islay Scotch to seal the deal.
So next time you’re craving something a little out of the ordinary, skip the usual and give this healing sipper a try. Whether you’re enjoying it by the fire on a cold night, mixing it up for friends at a gathering, or simply winding down after a long day, the Penicillin has just the right touch of comfort and sophistication.
Cheers to good taste and great cocktails!
