The Penicillin cocktail is a modern classic created by bartender Sam Ross in 2005 at Milk & Honey in New York City. It's a smoky, spicy twist on the classic whiskey sour, using Scotch whisky and a peated Islay single malt.
- Who Would Like It?
- Fans of smoky flavors.
- Whiskey enthusiasts.
- Those who appreciate a well-crafted, modern cocktail.
The Laphroaig Penicillin is a symphony of bold flavors. It's smoky, thanks to the Laphroaig, with a spicy kick from the ginger syrup. The lemon juice adds a refreshing tartness, while the honey rounds it out with a touch of sweetness.
Cheese Platter
Hearty cheeses like Gouda, Cheddar, or Blue Cheese pair well with the smoky and bold flavors of the Laphroaig Penicillin cocktail.
Grilled Meats
The cocktail's smoky notes are a perfect match for grilled steak or BBQ pork. The citrus element of the drink cuts through the richness of the meat.
Seafood
Smoked salmon or grilled shrimp can also complement the Laphroaig's peaty character. The lemon juice in the cocktail provides a nice acidity to balance the oily fish.
🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹
Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously
What equipment do I need to make the Laphroaig Penicillin cocktail at home?
You will need a cocktail shaker, a strainer, a measuring jigger, ice, and a rocks glass to serve the cocktail.
Can I make my own honey-ginger syrup? How?
Yes, you can make honey-ginger syrup by combining equal parts honey and water in a saucepan, adding slices of fresh ginger, and heating until the honey is dissolved. Allow the syrup to cool and infuse, then strain out the ginger pieces.
What is the purpose of floating the Laphroaig on top of the cocktail?
Floating the Laphroaig on top adds an aromatic smoky layer to the drink, highlighting the whisky's unique characteristics as you sip.
How can I garnish the cocktail if I don't have candied ginger or a lemon twist?
As an alternative, you can use a slice of fresh ginger or an orange twist to give it an aromatic garnish.
Is the Laphroaig Penicillin suitable for vegans?
This cocktail can be considered vegan-friendly since it does not contain any animal products; however, always check the specific brand of spirits and other ingredients for vegan certification.