Donald Sutherland
Canada's answer to the classic Rusty Nail, substituting Scotch with the distinctively spicy and smooth character of Canadian rye whisky.
40%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
Old Fashioned
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Donald Sutherland is a Canadian variation of the classic Rusty Nail, named in honor of the celebrated Canadian actor. It substitutes the traditional Scotch with Canadian rye whisky, creating a drink with a distinctly Canadian character. The name is attributed to Donald Sutherland's well-known appreciation for Canadian rye whisky.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
2.3 oz
0.8 oz
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Fill a mixing glass with ice.
Pour in the Canadian rye whisky and Drambuie.
Stir gently for 20-30 seconds until well-chilled.
Strain into a chilled Old Fashioned glass containing a large ice cube.
Express the oils from a lemon peel over the surface of the drink and garnish.
Glassware
Served in a chilled Old Fashioned glass
Garnish
Expressed over the drink
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
The 3:1 ratio of whisky to liqueur is paramount to allow the character of the Canadian rye to lead.
Stir the drink until well-chilled to achieve the perfect level of dilution, which softens the alcoholic edge.
The expressed lemon oils provide a crucial aromatic component that brightens the drink.
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Donald Sutherland.
Rusty Nail
The original cocktail, made with Scotch whisky instead of Canadian rye.
Changes
Rusty Spike
A variation using bourbon instead of Canadian rye, resulting in a sweeter and fuller-bodied drink.
Changes
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Rusty Nail
Scotch whisky and Drambuie. A simple, honeyed Highland cocktail.
Rusty Spike
A straightforward yet flavorful variation of the classic Rusty Nail, substituting bourbon for Scotch to create a distinctly American character with sweeter, fuller-bodied notes.