Bobby Burns Cocktail Recipe

The Bobby Burns cocktail, named after the famous Scottish poet Robert Burns, is a classic cocktail that dates back to the early 20th century. It's a warming, rich, and complex drink that's perfect for those who appreciate a good Scotch whisky.

• The cocktail was first mentioned in Harry Craddock's 'The Savoy Cocktail Book' in 1930.
• It's traditionally enjoyed on Burns Night, a Scottish celebration of Robert Burns' life and poetry, which takes place on January 25th.

The Bobby Burns cocktail is a robust, full-bodied drink with a rich sweetness from the vermouth and a hint of herbal complexity from the Benedictine. The Scotch whisky provides a smoky, malty backbone that's both warming and comforting.

• The Bobby Burns cocktail is often garnished with a lemon twist, but some variations use a cherry instead.
• Despite its Scottish origins, the cocktail has become popular worldwide, particularly in the United States.
• The Bobby Burns is sometimes referred to as a 'Rob Roy with a twist' due to its similar ingredient profile.

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the Scotch whisky, sweet vermouth, and Benedictine.
3. Stir until well chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist.

• Use a high-quality Scotch whisky for the best flavor.
• Stir the cocktail gently to avoid diluting it too much.
• Chill your glass before serving for the best experience.

Hors d'Oeuvres

• Smoked Salmon Canapés: The smoky flavors of the salmon pair elegantly with the peaty notes of Scotch whisky.
• Blue Cheese: The pungency of blue cheese contrasts beautifully with the sweet vermouth and honeyed notes of Benedictine.

Main Courses

• Roasted Duck Breast: The gamey, rich flavors of duck complement the complexity and robustness of the Bobby Burns cocktail.
• Grilled Steak with Peppercorn Sauce: A hearty steak with a pepper sauce aligns well with the woody and spicy undertones of the whisky-based drink.

Desserts

• Dark Chocolate Mousse: Chocolate and Scotch are a classic pair; the bittersweet notes highlight the herbal vermouth and Benedictine layers.
• Shortbread Cookies: A nod to the Scottish origin of the drink, the buttery cookies are subtly enhanced by the cocktail's sweet and herbal characteristics.

Cheeses

• Aged Cheddar: The sharp and nutty flavors of an aged cheddar can stand up to the Bobby Burns's assertive taste profile.

• Scotch whisky: Can be replaced with bourbon or rye whiskey.
• Sweet vermouth: Can be replaced with dry vermouth for a less sweet cocktail.
• Benedictine: Can be replaced with Drambuie or Chartreuse.

The Rusty Burns

• Substitute the Scotch whisky with a rich, peated Isle whisky.
• Add a drop or two of orange bitters.
• Garnish with a burnt orange twist. This twist intensifies the smoky profile and introduces a bittersweet citrus note, creating a darker, more mysterious version of the original Bobby Burns.

The Highland Herbalist

• Use a honey-infused whisky instead of regular Scotch.
• Increase Benedictine to 1/2oz and remove sweet vermouth.
• Add a dash of Angostura bitters. This variant is sweeter and more herbal-forward, perfect for those who prefer their cocktails with a pronounced honey note and less bitterness.

The Benedict Burns

• Keep the original Scotch whisky and sweet vermouth.
• Boost the Benedictine to 1/4oz for more herbal depth.
• Stir in a bar spoon of Fernet-Branca to introduce a minty complexity. A play on the medicinal qualities of both Benedictine and Fernet, this twist adds an invigorating layer that fans of botanical spirits will enjoy.