Penicillin Cocktail History

July 23, 2023
Nic Polotnianko

Introduction to the Penicillin Cocktail

The Penicillin Cocktail is a modern classic that has made its mark in the global cocktail scene. Known for its unique blend of flavors, this cocktail is a testament to the creativity and innovation in the world of mixology. The Penicillin Cocktail is not just a drink; it's a story of inspiration, experimentation, and success that has transcended borders and continues to inspire bartenders worldwide.

The Origin of the Penicillin Cocktail

The Penicillin Cocktail was born in the mid-2000s in the heart of New York City. The creator, Sam Ross, was a bartender at the famous Milk & Honey Bar. Ross, an Australian, was known for his creativity and passion for mixology. His desire to create a unique cocktail led to the birth of the Penicillin.

The Penicillin Cocktail is a testament to Ross's innovative spirit. He decided to riff on the Gold Rush, another Milk & Honey original, that features bourbon, lemon juice, and honey. Ross replaced bourbon with blended scotch and added a homemade honey-ginger syrup, which added sweetness and the classic bite of ginger. He then added a float of peaty scotch from Islay, an island known for producing smoky whiskies.

The result was a cocktail that was sweet, tart, spicy, and delicious. The Penicillin quickly gained popularity and became a modern-classic cocktail, served around the world and proving its status as one of the 21st century's biggest cocktail success stories.

The Inspiration Behind the Penicillin Cocktail

The Gold Rush cocktail played a significant role in inspiring the creation of the Penicillin Cocktail. The Gold Rush, another Milk & Honey original, features bourbon, lemon juice, and honey. Ross decided to riff on this classic by replacing bourbon with blended scotch and adding a homemade honey-ginger syrup.

The Scotch Whisky used in the Penicillin Cocktail is not just any whisky. Ross chose a blended scotch for the base and a peaty scotch from Islay for the float. The choice of scotch was crucial in creating the unique flavor profile of the Penicillin Cocktail. The blended scotch, lemon, and sweetened syrup create a balance in the drink, similar to that found in a Whiskey Sour. The float of peaty Islay scotch adds a smoky aroma that is the genius behind the cocktail.

Naming the Penicillin Cocktail

The name "Penicillin" might make one think of the life-saving antibiotic discovered by the Scottish scientist Alexander Fleming. While there might be a connection, the name of the cocktail is more of a tongue-in-cheek reference to its cure-all properties.

Ross named the cocktail "Penicillin" as a nod to its healing properties. The Penicillin Cocktail, with its blend of scotch, lemon, and honey-ginger syrup, is often seen as a remedy for what ails you. It's sweet, tart, spicy, and delicious, making it a perfect pick-me-up.

In conclusion, the Penicillin Cocktail is more than just a drink. It's a story of creativity, innovation, and success. It's a testament to the power of mixology and the impact a single cocktail can have on the global cocktail scene. So, the next time you sip on a Penicillin Cocktail, remember the story behind it. Cheers!

For more detailed information about the Penicillin cocktail, you can check here Wikipedia.

The Penicillin Cocktail's Rise to Fame

The Penicillin Cocktail quickly gained popularity at Milk & Honey, the bar where it was created. Its unique blend of flavors and the intrigue of its name made it a favorite among patrons. But its influence didn't stop at the doors of Milk & Honey. The Penicillin Cocktail played a significant role in the Craft Cocktail Movement and the Speakeasy Revival that swept across the United States and beyond in the early 2000s.

As the Craft Cocktail Movement gained momentum, bartenders sought to create innovative and unique drinks that would stand out. The Penicillin Cocktail, with its blend of scotch, lemon, and honey-ginger syrup, was a perfect example of this innovation. Its popularity at Milk & Honey and the buzz it created in the cocktail community helped fuel the Speakeasy Revival, a resurgence of intimate, Prohibition-era style bars that focused on high-quality, artisanal cocktails.

The Penicillin Cocktail's Global Impact

The Penicillin Cocktail didn't just make waves in New York City; it made a global impact. Today, you can find the Penicillin Cocktail in bars around the world, from London to Sydney. Its unique flavor profile and intriguing backstory have made it a favorite among bartenders and patrons alike.

One of the most interesting aspects of the Penicillin Cocktail's global impact is the variations and riffs on the original recipe that have emerged. Bartenders around the world have put their own spin on the Penicillin, creating new versions that reflect their unique tastes and the preferences of their clientele. These variations only add to the legacy of the Penicillin Cocktail, demonstrating its versatility and enduring appeal.

The Penicillin Cocktail Recipe

  1. Prepare honey-ginger syrup:
    • Combine equal parts honey and water in a saucepan
    • Add thinly sliced ginger and simmer for 10 minutes
    • Strain and let cool
  2. Build the cocktail:
    • In a shaker, combine blended Scotch whisky, lemon juice, and honey-ginger syrup
    • Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds
  3. Strain and serve:
    • Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice
    • Float the Islay Scotch on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon
    • Garnish with a piece of candied ginger on a cocktail pick

Read more below:

Penicillin

The Penicillin cocktail is a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, spicy, and smoky flavors. The honey and lemon provide a bright, refreshing sweetness, while the ginger adds a warm, spicy kick. The blended Scotch whisky gives the drink a smooth, rich base, and the Islay Scotch lends a distinct smoky, peaty finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of the Penicillin cocktail?

The Penicillin Cocktail was created in the mid-2000s by bartender Sam Ross at the Milk & Honey Bar in New York City. It was inspired by the Gold Rush cocktail and features a unique blend of scotch, lemon, and honey-ginger syrup.

Why is the Penicillin cocktail called Penicillin?

The Penicillin Cocktail is named for its perceived cure-all properties. The name is a tongue-in-cheek reference to the healing properties of the antibiotic penicillin.

What is a Penicillin cocktail called?

The Penicillin Cocktail is often referred to simply as a "Penicillin." It's also known as a modern classic in the cocktail world.

How many calories in a Penicillin?

The calorie content of a Penicillin Cocktail can vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a typical Penicillin Cocktail is estimated to contain approximately 200-250 calories.

0

Find the cocktail you'd love!

If you want to drink something - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!