Bourbon Penicillin
A significant variation of the modern classic Penicillin, substituting bourbon for Scotch whisky. This swap creates a more approachable yet equally complex drink, trading smoky and peaty notes for the sweeter, fuller-bodied profile of bourbon.
28%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
rocks
Glass
Flavor Journey
History & Heritage
“The Bourbon Penicillin is a variation of the Penicillin, created by Sam Ross at Milk & Honey in the mid-2000s. Ross's original was inspired by the Gold Rush (bourbon, lemon, honey) but used blended Scotch and added honey-ginger syrup plus an Islay Scotch float. The Bourbon Penicillin represents a return to the cocktail's roots, reintroducing bourbon from the original Gold Rush template. This variation emerged organically through the creativity of the bartending community, who recognized bourbon's compatibility with the Penicillin's flavor profile. It embodies the modern craft cocktail renaissance's spirit of innovation and experimentation.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a rocks glass in the freezer
Combine bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and honey-ginger syrup in a cocktail shaker
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds
Fill the chilled rocks glass with fresh ice (preferably one large cube)
Double-strain the contents into the glass
Gently pour the Islay Scotch over the back of a bar spoon to float on top
Garnish with a slice of candied ginger
Glassware
Served over ice in a rocks glass
Garnish
Thin slice of candied ginger
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use high-rye bourbon (90+ proof) to stand up to the bold flavors
Make honey-ginger syrup in advance - it keeps for two weeks refrigerated
Double strain to remove any ginger particles for smooth texture
The Islay Scotch float is essential - it provides the signature aroma
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Bourbon Penicillin.
Spicier Version
Muddle fresh ginger in shaker or increase ginger in syrup.
Changes
Sweeter Version
Increase honey-ginger syrup to 1 oz for richer sweetness.
Changes
Original Penicillin
The Sam Ross original using blended Scotch as the base.
Changes
Gold Rush
The Milk & Honey classic that inspired the Penicillin - bourbon, lemon, honey.
Changes
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Hot Penicillin
The modern classic warmed—Scotch with lemon and honey‑ginger in hot toddy format; optional peaty float.