A Penicillin cocktail with honey, ginger and lemon, made with Krampus Bottled in Bond Rye and Krampus Herbal Liqueur's raw honey.
The Penicillin is a modern classic and one of the most popular whiskey cocktails of the century so far: whiskey, lemon and honey-ginger syrup, with a smoky float on top. It tastes like a hot toddy reimagined as a cold, shaken drink.
This version uses Krampus Bottled in Bond Rye and gets its honey from Krampus Herbal Liqueur.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Krampus Bottled in Bond Rye
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz Krampus Herbal Liqueur
- ¼ oz ginger syrup (below)
- ¼ oz peated Islay Scotch, optional
Ginger Syrup
Simmer 1 cup sliced fresh ginger, 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water for 15 minutes. Cool, strain and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Directions
- Shake the rye, lemon, Krampus and ginger syrup hard with ice.
- Strain into a rocks glass over one large ice cube.
- Float the Scotch on top, if using.
Glass: Rocks glass · Garnish: Candied ginger
Tip
The classic Penicillin uses honey-ginger syrup. Krampus already supplies the honey, so this version needs only a little ginger syrup.
Variations
For a hot Penicillin, build it in a mug and top with 3 oz hot water. For the traditional style, use blended Scotch in place of the rye.
A Brief History of the Penicillin
Bartender Sam Ross created the Penicillin in 2005 at Milk & Honey in New York. He built it on blended Scotch, fresh lemon and honey-ginger syrup, then floated a little smoky Islay Scotch on top.
The drink was an instant hit with bartenders and has since become a standard on cocktail menus around the world, often called one of the few true modern classics.
Why Make It With Krampus
The original gets its sweetness from honey syrup. Krampus Herbal Liqueur is made with raw honey, so it brings that same honey along with roasted hazelnut and warming spice, which deepen the ginger. Using 100% rye in place of blended Scotch gives the drink a spicier, drier backbone. Add the smoky float, or skip it for a cleaner, honey-forward version.
FAQ
What whiskey is best for a Penicillin?
The original uses blended Scotch. Rye whiskey makes it spicier and works especially well with the extra honey and spice from Krampus.
Do I need the Islay Scotch float?
No, but it adds the signature smoky aroma. Even a ¼ oz makes a big difference.
Can I make a Penicillin without ginger syrup?
You can muddle 2 or 3 thin slices of fresh ginger in the shaker instead, then double-strain.