Irish Nail
The Hibernian counterpart to the classic Scotch-based Rusty Nail, a simple and profound cocktail with robust Irish whiskey and the honeyed, herbal liqueur Irish Mist.
39%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
Old Fashioned
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Irish Nail, also known as the Black Nail, emerged in the late 1940s or early 1950s following the creation of Irish Mist liqueur in 1947. It was a logical Irish counterpart to the Scotch-based Rusty Nail, combining Irish whiskey with the new honey and herbal liqueur.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
2 oz
0.8 oz
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill an Old Fashioned glass with a large ice cube.
In a separate mixing glass filled with ice, pour the Irish whiskey and Irish Mist.
Stir for 20-30 seconds until well-chilled.
Strain into the prepared Old Fashioned glass.
Garnish with an expressed orange peel.
Glassware
Served in a heavy, crystal Old Fashioned or rocks glass
Garnish
A wide swath of orange peel, 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
A whiskey-forward ratio (2:¾) is preferred to allow the character of the Irish whiskey to shine.
Serve over a large, dense ice cube to minimize dilution and maintain the optimal temperature.
The expressed oils from the orange peel are a crucial aromatic component that brightens the drink.
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Irish Nail.
Rusty Nail
The direct ancestor and Scottish counterpart, made with blended Scotch whisky and Drambuie.
Changes
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