cocktail
Peach Penicillin
The Penicillin is a modern legend, but a little seasonal twist goes a long way. Here, we replace the honey-ginger syrup with honey-peach syrup to give the drink a summery vibe while keeping its signature balance of sweet, smoky, and tart. The peach adds a summery softness that works beautifully alongside the Scotch's smoky depth.
For a non-alcoholic take, replace the scotch with a zero-proof whiskey alternative, or skip it entirely and combine the honey-peach syrup and fresh lemon with ginger ale. Shake long enough to chill, and keep the garnish clean for an elegant finish.
Do Ahead
Prepare and refrigerate the honey-peach syrup up to three days in advance; squeeze lemon juice just before making the drink for optimal brightness.
Ingredients
- 2 oz blended Scotch
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.75 oz honey-peach syrup (Combine equal parts honey, fresh peach puree, and hot water, then stir until combined and strain.)
- 0.25 oz Islay Scotch (Float on top.)
- Candied ginger piece (For garnish.)
- 1 expressed lemon peel (discarded after expression)
What Done Looks Like
The final pour should show a distinct, thin layer of smoky Islay Scotch floating on top, with the glass slightly sweating and the drink cold to the touch. If the float mixes too quickly, either pour more gently or ensure the Islay Scotch is chilled next time.
Instructions
- 01 Step 1 — Add the blended Scotch, fresh lemon juice, and honey-peach syrup to a shaker filled with ice.
- 02 Step 2 — Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds until well-chilled.
- 03 Step 3 — Strain over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
- 04 Step 4 — Slowly float the Islay Scotch on top by pouring it gently over the back of a bar spoon.
- 05 Final step — Garnish with a piece of candied ginger and serve immediately.
If It Goes Sideways
- Cocktail tastes overly sweet, the honey-peach syrup ratio may be too strong — reduce slightly and try again.
- Float sinks or dissipates, likely poured too fast — pour slower over the back of a bar spoon to control placement next time.
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