Bobby Burns Cocktail Recipe

Pro tips

• Chill your coupe or cocktail glass with ice water before straining to keep the drink cold longer.
• Use quality scotch and vermouth—the 1:1 ratio means each ingredient's flavor profile matters significantly.
• Stir gently for 15–20 seconds to chill without over-aerating, preserving the silky mouthfeel.
• A lemon twist expressed over the surface adds brightness that cuts the sweetness of the vermouth.

Substitutions

• Sweet Vermouth → Dry Vermouth (creates a less sweet, more bitter-forward cocktail)
• Old Mr. Boston Scotch → Any blended or single-malt scotch (flavor will vary by brand and age)
• Benedictine → Chartreuse or other herbal liqueur (changes the herbaceous profile entirely)

Equipment

mixing glass · bar spoon · jigger · coupe or cocktail glass · strainer

Can I substitute the scotch whiskey in a Bobby Burns?

Yes. Any blended or single-malt scotch works; the character will shift slightly depending on the whiskey's smokiness and age.

Should a Bobby Burns be stirred or shaken?

Stir it over ice in a mixing glass for 15–20 seconds, then strain into a coupe or cocktail glass. This preserves the spirit-forward character.

What does Benedictine taste like in cocktails?

Benedictine adds herbal, slightly spiced notes—think anise, saffron, and gentle sweetness—balancing the scotch and vermouth.

Can I make a Bobby Burns ahead of time?

Mix and chill in a glass with ice, but stir and strain fresh just before serving to avoid over-dilution.