The Penicillin is the modern classic that earned its name — smoky Scotch, honey-ginger syrup, and fresh lemon come together in a cocktail that genuinely feels like it could cure what ails you. Warming, complex, and impossibly drinkable.
Ingredients
Glass
Lowball
The Story
The Penicillin was created in 2005 by bartender Sam Ross at the legendary Milk & Honey bar in New York City. Ross was experimenting with Scotch cocktails and combined the warming elements of honey and ginger with the brightness of lemon, then topped the drink with a float of smoky Islay Scotch. The result was an instant modern classic.
Within a few years, the Penicillin had spread to cocktail bars worldwide and is now considered one of the most important cocktails of the 21st century. It proved that Scotch — long considered too complex for mixing — could be the foundation of a perfectly balanced, accessible cocktail.
How We Make It
Shaker
Pour 60ml blended Scotch, 25ml fresh lemon juice, and 20ml honey-ginger syrup into a shaker.
Shake
Add ice and shake hard for about 12 seconds.
Strain
Strain into a lowball glass with large ice.
Float & Garnish
Gently float 7ml smoky Islay Scotch (such as Laphroaig) over the back of a spoon, and garnish with a candied ginger slice.
Variations
Smoke-Free Penicillin
Omitting the smoky Scotch layer for a more accessible version that highlights the honey-ginger-lemon balance.
Mezcal Penicillin
Swapping the Scotch for mezcal and the smoky float for an even smokier mezcal — a Mexican version that works beautifully.
Irish Penicillin
Using Irish whiskey instead of Scotch, with a smoky Connemara float — smoother, with a delicate smokiness.
Bartender Tips
Make the Syrup
The honey-ginger syrup is what makes this drink special. Fresh ginger is essential — powdered ginger will not deliver the same bright, spicy heat.
The Islay Float
Pour the smoky Scotch gently over the back of a spoon so it sits on top. That first smoky sip before it integrates is part of the magic.
Blended, Not Single Malt
The base spirit should be a quality blended Scotch, not an expensive single malt. Save the single malt for sipping — the blend shakes better.