Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ fl oz Blended Scotch Whisky (or 45 ml)
  • ¾ fl oz Drambuie Liqueur (or 22.5 ml)
  • 1 wide strip Lemon Zest
  • Sufficient Ice (for mixing and serving)

Instructions:

  1. Chill the Serving Glass: Place the rocks glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes, or fill it with ice and water. Discard the chilling elements before serving.
  2. Ready the Mixing Glass: Fill the cocktail mixing glass approximately three-quarters full with standard ice cubes.
  3. Measure and Pour: Precisely measure 1.5 fl oz (45 ml) of Scotch whisky and 0.75 fl oz (22.5 ml) of Drambuie liqueur, and pour them over the ice in the mixing glass.
  4. Stir for Dilution: Using a bar spoon, gently stir the liquids and ice slowly and consistently for approximately 25–30 seconds. This is crucial to thoroughly chill the drink and achieve 20–25% dilution without aeration. The outside of the mixing glass should become heavily frosted.
  5. Strain and Serve: Place a large, fresh ice cube (or sphere) into the chilled rocks glass. Strain the contents of the mixing glass directly over the fresh ice.
  6. Garnish and Finish: Take the wide strip of lemon zest. Hold it, yellow side down, over the drink and twist or pinch it firmly to express the aromatic citrus oils onto the surface of the Rusty Nail cocktail. Lightly rub the zest around the rim of the glass before serving immediately.