Rob Roy

The Rob Roy is the Scotch whisky version of the Manhattan and is sometimes referred to as a Scotch Manhattan. It was named after Robert Roy MacGregor, the Scottish Robin Hood of the 18th century. Like the Martini and Manhattan, the Rob Roy can also be made dry (dry vermouth) or perfect (dry and sweet vermouth).

2 ounces Scotch
1 ounce Sweet Vermouth
2 Dashes Angostura or Peychaud’s Bitters
Maraschino Cherry for Garnish

Place liquid ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake for ten to fifteen seconds.* Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with the maraschino cherry.

*Water is added to a drink from the ice that is used to mix it with. The role of the water in any cocktail is to calm down the flavors all around and to reduce the "burn" of the alcohol. This is extremely important for creating a cocktail that is smooth and relaxing.

This drink can also be built in an old-fashioned glass on the rocks.

A "dry" Rob Roy is made by replacing the sweet vermouth with dry vermouth. A "perfect" Rob Roy is made with equal parts sweet and dry vermouth.