Flying Scotchman
The Flying Scotchman is a sophisticated cocktail that combines the rich flavors of Scotch whisky with sweet vermouth and a hint of orange bitters.
- 5 min
- Easy
- Cocktail glass
- 4 ingredients
Flying Scotchman
Ingredients
- Scotch1 oz
- Sweet Vermouth1 oz
- Bitters1 dash
- Sugar syrup¼ tsp
Method
- Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a cocktail glass, and serve.
What you need
Nothing fancy. Here is what to look for. We earn a small cut if you buy through these links, at no cost to you.
A shaker that seals
Two weighted tins beat three-piece shakers. They chill faster and never jam.
See on Amazon ↗Aromatic bitters
One small bottle lasts for years and improves almost every stirred drink.
See on Amazon ↗The hero bottle
Scotch whisky often gets pigeonholed as a spirit meant only for neat sipping or on the rocks. While there's certainly nothing wrong with enjoying a fine single malt straight, this perception has left scotch woefully underutilised in the cocktail world.
See 18 Scotch drinksWhere it comes from
The Flying Scotchman is a classic cocktail celebrating Scottish whisky heritage and national pride, named after the famous high-speed express train of the same name. This spirited drink represents the intersection of Scotch whisky culture with classic cocktail tradition.
Tips from the bar
- Use premium Scottish single malt or blended Scotch as the foundation
- the whisky's character should shine through, so avoid over-diluting
- serve in a traditional coupe or rocks glass depending on preparation
- a splash of soda water can be added for refreshment without compromising the whisky
Twists worth trying
- Islay Flying Scotchman
- Uses peaty Islay Scotch for smoky, intense character
- Highland Flying Scotchman
- Incorporates lighter Highland Scotch for floral, fruity notes
- Speyside Flying Scotchman
- Employs rich Speyside Scotch for sherry-influenced warmth
- Modern Flying Scotchman
- Contemporary version using artisanal mixers and reduced sugar
What to eat with it
- Smoked salmon
- Scottish shortbread
- Haggis
- Peated cheese
- Cured meat board
- Scone with clotted cream
The finished drink
Questions
What is in a Flying Scotchman?
A Flying Scotchman is made with scotch, sweet vermouth, bitters, sugar syrup.
What glass do you use for a Flying Scotchman?
Serve a Flying Scotchman in a cocktail glass.
What does a Flying Scotchman taste like?
Expect smoky, rich, herbal.
What can I make with Scotch?
We have 18 drinks built around Scotch. See them all on the Scotch page.
More with Scotch
Every Scotch drink →One good drink, every Friday.
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