There’s something undeniably comforting about a Highland Fling cocktail-it’s rich, smooth, and just the right amount of smoky with a bright citrus finish. This classic Scotch-based drink is simple to make but full of character, and it’s one I keep coming back to, especially on cool evenings when I want something warming in hand. I’ve made this drink countless times, and along the way I’ve learned a few tricks to make it even better.
Highland Fling
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Old Fashioned glass or whisky tumbler
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) Scotch whisky
– 1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
– Orange peel, for garnish
– Ice (fresh ice makes a big difference)
Method
- Grab a mixing glass and fill it halfway with ice. Pour in the Scotch whisky and sweet vermouth.
- Stir gently for about 30 seconds-you want the drink well chilled but not watered down. Stirring also keeps it clear and smooth, unlike shaking which can cloud the drink.
- Strain into an Old Fashioned glass filled with fresh ice. If you don’t have one, a short whisky tumbler works just fine.
- Use a vegetable peeler or paring knife to cut a strip of orange peel. Twist it over the glass to release the oils, then drop it in as a garnish.
Tips & Tricks
– Always use fresh ice. Old or melting ice can water down the drink too quickly.
– Stir, don’t shake-this isn’t a martini.
– Let your Scotch shine. Choose a whisky you enjoy sipping on its own. A smoky Islay adds a bold kick, while a Speyside brings a softer, fruity note.
– Want it a little lighter? You can use a dry vermouth instead of sweet for a more herbal, crisp version.
– Don’t skip the orange peel-it adds a fresh, citrusy aroma that brightens the drink.
Make-Ahead Notes
Planning for guests? You can scale this up and mix a larger batch in advance. Just combine the Scotch and vermouth in a pitcher, cover, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, pour over ice and garnish each glass individually with a twist of orange.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you’ve got leftovers, store the mix (without ice or garnish) in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir again before serving.
Serving Suggestions
The Highland Fling pairs beautifully with foods that match its bold flavors. Here are a few favorites:
Smoked Salmon
The salty, smoky richness of salmon pairs perfectly with the peaty notes of Scotch.
Dark Chocolate
A square of dark chocolate brings out the sweet vermouth’s depth and contrasts nicely with the whisky’s warmth.
Blue Cheese
This one’s bold, but the tangy punch of blue cheese stands up to the strong drink and makes for a memorable bite.
Variations
Want to mix it up a bit? Here are a few fun twists I’ve tried over the years:
Rusty Fling
– Swap the Scotch for Drambuie (a Scotch-based liqueur with honey and herbs) for a sweeter, spiced version.
Heather Fling
– Add a splash (about ½ oz / 15 ml) of elderflower liqueur like St. Germain before stirring. It adds a soft floral note that plays well with the Scotch.
Peated Fling
– Use a heavily peated Scotch for a smoky, almost campfire-like drink. Garnish with a sprig of thyme or heather for something extra special.
Virgin Highland Fling
– Use a non-alcoholic spirit substitute (like a whisky-style zero-proof spirit) with a splash of orange bitters. It’s a great option for guests who want the flavor without the booze.
Common Questions
Can I use any type of Scotch?
Yes! That’s one of the fun parts of this drink. Try different styles-smoky, sweet, or spicy-and see what you like best.
Is it a strong drink?
It is. With no mixers beyond vermouth, the Scotch takes center stage. Sip slowly and enjoy the layers of flavor.
When’s the best time to serve it?
This has been my go-to cocktail for cozy nights by the fire or when celebrating something special-especially Scottish holidays like Burns Night.
Can I make it in a big batch?
Absolutely. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and mix in a pitcher. Store in the fridge and stir before pouring over ice.
How can I personalize it?
Try different garnishes-lemon peel, a cherry, or even a cinnamon stick. You can also experiment with different vermouths or whisky styles.
Final Thoughts
The Highland Fling is a cocktail that feels both classic and endlessly customizable. It’s simple enough to make on a weeknight, but special enough to serve to guests. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or play around with variations, it’s a drink that always brings a little warmth and character to your glass. Cheers to that!
