Cameron's Kick Cocktail

Pro tips

• Use fresh lemon juice squeezed immediately before serving—bottled juice will flatten the cocktail's brightness.
• Chill your glass first by filling it with ice water while you prepare the drink; discard the water before straining.
• Stir for 10–15 seconds over ice until the mixing glass frosts on the outside, indicating proper dilution.
• Balance is key: if the cocktail tastes too sharp, you may be using too much lemon or low-quality spirits; adjust whiskey ratios slightly upward.

Substitutions

• Desmond & Duff Scotch → any quality single malt or blended Scotch whisky (1:1 ratio)
• Irish Whiskey → Scotch whisky for an all-Scotch version, or bourbon for a spicier profile
• Orange bitters → Angostura bitters (adds more spice, slightly less citrus character)
• Fresh lemon juice → lime juice (creates a greener, more tropical variation)

Storage & make-ahead

This cocktail is meant to be served immediately after preparation; do not store mixed cocktails.

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · bar spoon · jigger (for measuring) · strainer

Should this cocktail be shaken or stirred?

This cocktail should be stirred with ice to chill and dilute slightly without introducing excess aeration, which preserves the whisky's character.

Can I substitute the whiskeys in this recipe?

Yes. Use any quality Scotch and Irish whiskey as 1:1 replacements. Blended whiskeys work if single malts aren't available.

What type of glass should I serve this in?

Serve in a coupe or rocks glass. A rocks glass with one large ice cube is traditional for whisky cocktails.

How can I adjust the citrus flavor?

Use fresh lemon juice only—bottled loses brightness. For less tartness, reduce to 1/8 oz; for more, increase to 1/2 oz.

What does orange bitters add to this drink?

Orange bitters add aromatic complexity and subtle spice that balances the whiskeys' warmth with the lemon's acidity.