The Story Behind The Bobby Burns
Looking to create a drink that’s widely underappreciated and makes the most of your Scotch collection? The sultry Bobby Burns, served up in a classy cocktail glass, might be the one for you.
The Bobby Burns is a riff on the Rob Roy, which is itself a riff on the Manhattan. Hazy origins surround the drink, which replaces the original Rob Roy’s bitters with Bénédicine liqueur. The combination appears in Henry Craddock’s legendary “Savoy Cocktail Book,” where it’s described as “one of the best whisky cocktails.”
While the Bobby Burns profile exudes complexity, its preparation is fairly simple. Blended Scotch, vermouth, and Bénédictine are mixed until cold, strained into a chilled cocktail glass (we love a Nick & Nora), and topped off with a zesty lemon twist.
The result is a deep amber cocktail, brimming with an unexpected burst of citrus to counter the cocktail’s sweet and savory notes.
Keep reading to mix and sip one of your own.
Related Reads & Recipes
Learn About Liqueur
More Liqueur Recipes To Explore
The Last Word Recipe:
A classic cocktail that's easy to master, the Last Word is made with equal parts gin, Chartreuse, Maraschino liqueur, and citrus. Get the recipe here!
The Hard Start Espresso Martini:
Made with Mr Black, Fernet-Branca, and Branca Menta, the Hard Start Espresso Martini is a minty and bitter take on the beloved classic.
The Cold Snap Recipe:
This elegant, easy-drinking cocktail has wintry flavors like cinnamon, cloves, and orange, and it's a low-ABV crowd-pleaser. Learn how to make it here!
The RumChata Java:
RumChata’s Caribbean rum, Mexican spice, and Wisconsin dairy cream combine with freshly brewed coffee in this smooth and creamy libation.
The French Quarter Fizz Recipe:
This fizz features yellow chartreuse, a low-alcohol liqueur that's easy on the palate with flavors of citrus and honey. Get the recipe here!
The Purple Gin Coco Recipe:
This purple, coconut-flavored cocktail uses butterfly pea tea-infused gin for color. Its tropical flavor and flare are sure to put a smile on your face.
