Cameron's Kick Cocktail

Pro tips

• Fresh lemon juice (not bottled) is essential—it brightens the whiskeys and balances the bitters.
• Chill your glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer without over-diluting.
• Use a 1:1 ratio of Scotch to Irish whiskey for balance; adjust to taste if you prefer one whiskey forward.
• Add orange bitters last and stir gently to distribute evenly across the drink.

Substitutions

• Irish Whiskey → Bourbon or Rye (changes profile to spicier, less smooth)
• Fresh Lemon Juice → Lime Juice (sharper citrus, less traditional)
• Orange Bitters → Angostura Bitters (more herbal, less citrusy note)

Storage & make-ahead

Mix whiskeys and lemon juice ahead and refrigerate up to 2 days; add bitters and serve over fresh ice to prevent dilution.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · bar spoon · fine strainer

What type of whiskey works best for this cocktail?

Use a quality Scotch and Irish whiskey in equal parts. Blended or single-malt Scotch both work; Irish whiskey adds smoothness. Avoid overly peaty Scotch unless you prefer bold flavor.

Should this cocktail be shaken or stirred?

Shake vigorously with ice for 10–15 seconds to chill, dilute slightly, and incorporate the lemon juice evenly. Strain into a coupe or rocks glass.

Can I batch this cocktail ahead?

Yes. Mix whiskeys, lemon juice, and bitters in a bottle; refrigerate up to 2 days. Pour over fresh ice when serving to avoid over-dilution.

What glassware is best?

Serve in a coupe glass for elegance or a rocks glass over ice. Either preserves the cocktail's balanced flavor.

What can I substitute for orange bitters?

Angostura bitters work in a pinch, though they shift the flavor profile. Orange bitters are essential to the original character.