Penicillin Cocktail Vs Whisky Sour: Key Differences Between Them

Introduction

Whisky is a versatile spirit in mixology. It combines well with a variety of ingredients to create nuanced, complex drinks. It is the base liquor of both the penicillin cocktail and the whisky sour. Apart from that similarity, both cocktails are quite different from each other in terms of ingredients, aroma and taste. Primarily, whisky sour cocktail is a truly vintage cocktail, while the penicillin cocktail has a modern, creative spin on it.

The ingredients of a classic whisky sour cocktail are relatively simple— a blend of bourbon or rye whisky, lemon juice, sweetener, and egg white (popularly added but optional for a reason). The egg white gives a great frothy touch. However, it is the key ingredient that sets a Boston sour cocktail apart from whisky sour cocktail. The three core ingredients remain constant for mixing a classic whisky sour cocktail. Any additions to the mix are creative variations.

On the other hand, the penicillin cocktail has a more complex ingredient list. It combines blended scotch as well as peated scotch with lemon juice, honey syrup and ginger. Using two different kinds of whisky is crucial for this drink. The blended scotch whisky forms a mellow base, while the peated variety adds a smoky note to the cocktail. A simple honey syrup adds balanced sweetness to the toasty spice of ginger. The resultant concoction is a nuanced and layered whisky cocktail.

Penicillin Cocktail Versus Whisky Sour: Flavour Profile

The whisky sour cocktail is known for its bright, balanced taste. The aromatic, spiced profile of bourbon whisky is ideal for uniting the tartness of lemon juice with the sweetness of sugar. You can also opt for homemade simple syrup instead. It adds a subtle viscous touch to the drink, augmenting its texture. Egg white is a popular optional ingredient for whisky sour cocktail. It adds a silky consistency to the drink while softening the acidity of the lemon juice. Overall, the classic cocktail has a crisp and zesty flavour profile.

In contrast, the penicillin cocktail has a more diverse flavour profile. The smoky notes of the peated scotch whisky offer a unique contrast. It pairs perfectly with the mellow sweetness of honey and the zestiness of ginger. The lemon juice provides a subtle acidity that showcases the rest of the drink’s complementary flavours. The cocktail’s layered flavours make it a great drink for fancy cocktail parties and holiday gatherings.

Penicillin Cocktail And Whisky Sour: Preparation And Presentation

Whisky Sour Cocktail

To make 2 cocktails, you will need 60 ml of bourbon or rye whisky, 40 ml of lemon juice, 30 ml of simple syrup and lots of ice. If adding egg whites, add 30 ml of it. Whisky sours are typically made by shaking all ingredients in a cocktail shaker. This helps chill the drinks while emulsifying the egg whites. Once shaken, the drinks are strained into a rock glass or coupe glass. They are garnished usually with maraschino cherries or lemon twists before being served.

Penicillin Cocktail

For mixing 2 drinks, you will need 60 ml blended scotch whisky, 30 ml peated scotch whisky, 30 ml lemon juice, 30-40 ml honey syrup, 6 small slices of ginger, and 4 candied ginger pieces. Muddle the ginger in a cocktail shaker before adding the blended whisky, lemon juice and honey to the mix. Shake the ingredients with lots of ice till the ingredients are properly mixed. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass and layer the peated scotch whisky on top. Garnish with candied ginger pieces before serving.

Both the whisky sour and the penicillin cocktail are iconic drinks, but they offer distinct flavour profiles. The former is bright with alternating notes of tartness and sweetness. As for the latter, the drink has a smoky, spiced and layered taste. The whisky sour is a crisp and simple cocktail that complements a variety of fried snacks and desserts. Meanwhile, the penicillin cocktail offers a richer, more complex accompaniment to hearty mains and charcuterie boards. Depending on cocktail preferences and the occasion, both drinks have their own place and can be savoured by all whisky connoisseurs.