Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic43.8% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 3 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: Cheese, Desserts, BBQ / Cookout
Ingredients & Tools
BaseModifierGarnish
- 1 1/2 ozScotchBase
- 1/2 ozDrambuieModifier
- 1 twist ofLemon PeelGarnish
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirGarnish
- Pour the Scotch and Drambuie into an old-fashioned glass almost filled with ice cubes.
- Stir well.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Garnish with the lemon twist.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
CheeseDessertsHard Cheese
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.Match it with foodFind food pairings that complement the flavors in this drink.
Swap notes
Base spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.CitrusA citrus twist mostly changes aroma, not acidity. Lemon, orange and grapefruit twists each push the drink in a different direction.
GarnishA citrus twist adds aroma and oils to the surface of the drink without changing acidity. Lemon is sharp and clean, orange is softer and sweeter, grapefruit is more bitter. Express the peel over the glass and wipe the rim for maximum impact.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Rusty Nail?
- The Rusty Nail is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Old-Fashioned Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 43.8%. A standard serving contains approximately 158 calories.
- What does a Rusty Nail taste like?
- Rusty Nail has a flavour profile featuring Honey, Herbal, Oak, Smoke. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Rusty Nail?
- Rusty Nail pairs well with Cheese, Desserts, Hard Cheese. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Rusty Nail?
- The Rusty Nail has an ABV of approximately 43.8%. That's approximately 1.46 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 158 calories, 4.4g sugar, 5.9g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Rusty Nail typically served?
- Rusty Nail is a popular choice for BBQ / Cookout, After Dinner. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Rusty Nail?
- If you enjoy Rusty Nail, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Rusty Nail at home?
- Yes. The Rusty Nail uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Old-Fashioned Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Rusty Nail with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.