There’s something deeply comforting about a Bobby Burns cocktail. It’s smooth, rich, and just the right balance of smoky and sweet—with a little herbal intrigue to keep things interesting. This has been my go-to cocktail for chilly evenings or when I want something a little more sophisticated without being fussy. Named after the beloved Scottish poet Robert Burns, this drink is full of character and tradition, and once you try it, it might just become a favorite in your rotation too.
Bobby Burns
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail | Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
– 60ml (2 oz) Scotch whisky (choose a good-quality blended or single malt)
– 22ml (0.75 oz) sweet vermouth
– 15ml (0.5 oz) Bénédictine liqueur
– Ice
– Optional: lemon twist, for garnish
Glass: A chilled stemmed cocktail glass works best, but a small whiskey glass will do in a pinch.
Method
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Pour in the Scotch whisky, sweet vermouth, and Bénédictine.
- Stir for about 20–30 seconds, until the drink is nicely chilled and slightly diluted. You’re aiming for a silky texture here.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist, if you’d like. The citrus oils add a nice brightness on the nose.
Tips & Notes
– Chill your glass ahead of time. Just pop it in the freezer for a few minutes while you mix the drink.
– The Bénédictine adds sweetness and a complex herbal flavor. If you find the drink too sweet, reduce it slightly next time or add a dash of Angostura bitters to balance it out.
– Stir, don’t shake. Shaking would make this cocktail cloudy and overly aerated. A gentle stir keeps it smooth and elegant.
– If you’re making this ahead for a party, stir everything together without ice and store in the fridge. When ready to serve, stir each portion with ice and strain into glasses.
Ingredient Swaps
– Scotch whisky: Try bourbon for a sweeter, rounder flavor. It changes the character, but still tastes great.
– Sweet vermouth: If you prefer a drier drink, go for dry vermouth. It’ll cut some sweetness and add a crisp edge.
– Bénédictine: No Bénédictine on hand? Try Drambuie or another herbal liqueur like Chartreuse (go easy—it’s strong!).
What it Tastes Like
The Bobby Burns is bold and warming. You’ll get that unmistakable smokiness from the Scotch, mellowed out by the sweet vermouth’s deep, red fruit notes. The Bénédictine brings in honeyed, spiced layers—almost like a whisper of herbs and baking spices.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and one thing I learned along the way is to let the Scotch be the star. Use one you love, because its flavor will carry through every sip.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail feels classy, so it pairs well with equally rich or indulgent snacks:
– Aged cheeses: Think sharp cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese.
– Smoked salmon: Especially on rye crackers with a little cream cheese.
– Dark chocolate: A square or two of 70% cacao makes a lovely companion.
Make It Your Own: Variations
Smoky Bobby
– Use a peated Scotch like Laphroaig or Ardbeg for a deeper, smokier profile.
Herbal Bobby
– Add a few drops of green Chartreuse to boost the herbal notes.
Modern Bobby
– Stir in a splash (about 5ml/1 tsp) of ginger syrup for a hint of spice.
Non-Alcoholic Bobby
– Use 60ml non-alcoholic whisky alternative, 22ml non-alcoholic sweet vermouth, and 15ml of an herbal syrup (like a chamomile-honey blend) to mimic Bénédictine.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
– You can batch this drink! Just multiply the ingredients by however many servings you need, mix in a pitcher without ice, and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir each serving with ice before pouring.
– Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Don’t add ice until serving.
FAQs
Do I have to use a specific type of Scotch?
Not at all! A smooth blended Scotch works beautifully, but if you love smoky single malts, go for it. Just keep in mind that the Scotch’s flavor will really stand out.
What’s the deal with Bénédictine?
It’s a French herbal liqueur made with 27 different herbs and spices. Sweet and complex, it adds depth to cocktails. A little goes a long way.
Is the lemon twist important?
It’s optional, but recommended. The oils from the lemon peel add a bright, citrusy aroma that balances the richness of the drink.
Can I shake it instead of stirring?
Try to stick with stirring—shaking makes the drink cloudy and too bubbly. Stirring keeps it smooth and clear.
Can I make this less sweet?
Yes! Try reducing the Bénédictine to 10ml (about 1/3 oz), or use a dry vermouth instead of sweet.
In Closing
The Bobby Burns is one of those cocktails that feels timeless. It’s rich, elegant, and just a little bit poetic—fitting for a drink named after Scotland’s most famous poet. Whether you’re sipping it to celebrate Burns Night or just want something a little special in your glass, this one’s a keeper.
Cheers to cozy nights and well-balanced drinks.
