Summery Scotch Cocktails

Scotch hasn’t traditionally been a go-to spirit for summer cocktails, but that’s changing as more bartenders look to incorporate a little warmth and/or smokiness into seasonal recipes. Case in point: Sam Ross’ modern classic, The Penicillin, which is one of the best examples of how Scotch can anchor a bright and refreshing drink. Here are a few of our other favorite summer Scotch cocktails. 

Cameron’s Kick

The Cameron’s Kick pairs whiskies from Scotland and Ireland, while almond-rich orgeat and lemon juice brighten the mix.

Death or Glory

In this summery Scotch cocktail, a blended malt whisky meets coconut syrup, lemon, curaçao, egg white, and absinthe.

Frosty Nail

The Rusty Nail may be a classic winter warmer, but bartenders at Bunny Slope and Bodega saw frozen potential in the Scotch-based standard. 

Islay Daiquiri

This cocktail matches smoky Scotch with pineapple rum, and a coconut-tea syrup ties it all together.

The Last Laph

Scotch anchors a mix of pineapple juice, ginger liqueur, lemon, and absinthe. 

Me Quiero Casar

Scotch makes an unexpected but delicious appearance in this sweet, creamy coffee cocktail.

Scotch and Coconut

A split base of rum and Scotch might sound like the perfect match for cold-weather sipping, but when curaçao and coconut water enter the equation, the combo takes a turn for the tropical.

This & That

This New Orleans take on the Penicillin leans into summer with the addition of peach liqueur. 

Tuk Tuk Tea

For his Tuk Tuk Tea, Kevin Diedrich of Pacific Cocktail Haven combines a split base of Scotch and Cognac with the unsweetened tea and a touch of Islay Scotch for smokiness. For richness and texture, he then sweetens with a rich honey syrup.

Turnbull Tipple

Scotch and ginger find harmony with strawberries and hard cider in the Turnbull Tipple from Sycamore Den in San Diego.