Rusty Compass
A modern craft cocktail that brilliantly reimagines the classic Rusty Nail, steering it into smokier, more complex territory with peated Scotch, Drambuie, and Cherry Heering.
38%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
coupe
Glass
Flavor Journey
History & Heritage
“The Rusty Compass was created by Meaghan Dorman, Bar Director of New York's celebrated Raines Law Room and Dear Irving, during the craft cocktail renaissance of the early 21st century. This cocktail represents a thoughtful evolution of the classic Rusty Nail (Scotch and Drambuie), incorporating two key influences: the Rusty Nail's core combination of Scotch and Drambuie, and the Blood & Sand's use of Scotch and Cherry Heering. The name is a clever double entendre, referencing both its "Rusty" heritage and the "Compass Box" brand of whisky essential to its identity. Dorman's creation exemplifies the craft cocktail movement's ethos of taking simple classics and elevating them with high-quality, complex ingredients and sophisticated flavor profiles.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass
Fill mixing glass two-thirds full with high-quality, solid ice cubes
Stir briskly and consistently for 20-25 seconds until mixture is perfectly chilled
The exterior of mixing glass should be frosted
Strain cocktail into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass
Express oils from wide orange twist over surface of drink
Place orange peel on rim or drop into glass
Glassware
Served up in a chilled coupe or cocktail glass
Garnish
1-inch wide orange peel, expressed over drink surface to release oils
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Compass Box 'The Peat Monster' is essential - substitutes will fundamentally change the drink
Express orange oils properly to see fine mist spray onto drink surface
Serve immediately after preparation for optimal temperature and aromatics
Pre-chill glassware for at least 30 minutes for best results
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Rusty Compass.
Laphroaig Rusty Compass
Substitute Laphroaig 10 Year for more medicinal, iodine-heavy smoke.
Changes
On the Rocks
Served over a large ice cube in an Old Fashioned glass for slow dilution.
Changes
Original Rusty Nail
The classic predecessor with just Scotch and Drambuie, no cherry liqueur.
Changes
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Donald Sutherland
Canada's answer to the classic Rusty Nail, substituting Scotch with the distinctively spicy and smooth character of Canadian rye whisky.
Rusty Nail
Scotch whisky and Drambuie. A simple, honeyed Highland cocktail.