The History of the Rob Roy
An irresistible combination of vermouth, Scotch whisky, and bitters, the Rob Roy is a smooth, tasty...
Rob RoyCocktail recipe
Cocktail recipe
Rating
4.56 / 5
The Rob Roy is a classic Scotch whisky cocktail akin to a Manhattan but distinguished by its use of Scotch rather than rye or bourbon. The drink is named after the Scottish folk hero Robert Roy MacGregor and traditionally features a combination of Scotch whisky, red (sweet) vermouth, and a dash of Angostura bitters, resulting in a smooth, rich drink with herbal and spice undertones. The bitters add depth and complexity to the sweetness of the vermouth, which complements the smoky notes of the Scotch. It's often garnished with maraschino cherries, adding a touch of fruitiness and color to the presentation. Served in a cocktail glass, the Rob Roy offers a perfect balance of flavors for a sophisticated and timeless drinking experience.
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Microbadges
15 key ingredients
Cocktail Of The Day
Invented
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1894
Base ingredient
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Whiskey
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132 calories
Garnish
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Cocktail cherry
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31.43% | 2.2 units of alcohol *
Details
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Classic
Stirred
Tags
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Cocktail Colin says:
5/5
The Rob Roy cocktail, a Scottish twist on the Manhattan, seamlessly marries the smokiness of Scotch whisky with the sweet complexities of red vermouth and the herbal hints from Angostura bitters. This blend creates a sumptuously smooth drink that nods to its heritage with a deep, layered flavor profile, making it a classic choice for those who appreciate a sophisticated yet robust cocktail.
Method
How to make a Rob Roy
Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
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- Add all the ingredients into a mixing glass with ice and stir quite vigorously combine the ingredients
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- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with two maraschino cherries and serve
Power tips
Elevate the Rob Roy with these master mixologist tips
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Find out more- Use a high-quality single malt Scotch for a more authentic and robust flavor profile.
- A 2:1 ratio of vermouth to Scotch can be more balanced for some, depending on the sweetness preferred.
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FAQ's
What is the history behind the Rob Roy cocktail?
The Rob Roy cocktail was created in 1894 at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City. It was named after the Scottish folk hero Robert Roy MacGregor, similar to how the Manhattan cocktail was named after a New York borough. The drink was created to commemorate the premiere of an operetta based on MacGregor's life, quickly becoming a popular choice for its distinct flavor.
How does a Rob Roy differ from a Manhattan?
The primary difference between a Rob Roy and a Manhattan lies in the type of whiskey used. While a Manhattan typically uses rye or bourbon whiskey, a Rob Roy is made with Scotch whiskey. Additionally, while both drinks use sweet vermouth, the choice of Scotch in a Rob Roy offers a more profound and smoky flavor profile compared to the smoother, sweeter profile of a Manhattan.
Can I use any type of whiskey for a Rob Roy?
Traditionally, a Rob Roy is made with Scotch whiskey, which imparts a distinct flavor profile to the cocktail. While you can technically use other types of whiskey, such as bourbon or rye, doing so would significantly alter the drink's traditional taste and character, possibly turning it into a different cocktail experience altogether. For an authentic Rob Roy, it is recommended to use Scotch whiskey.
What is the significance of stirring and not shaking a Rob Roy?
Stirring a Rob Roy, rather than shaking, is crucial for maintaining the cocktail's clarity and texture. Shaking can introduce air bubbles and cause the drink to become cloudy, which is not desired in a classic Rob Roy. Stirring gently ensures that the ingredients are well mixed without compromising the cocktail's elegant presentation and smooth mouthfeel.
Are there variations of the Rob Roy, and if so, what are they?
Yes, there are several variations of the Rob Roy, catering to different palates. The most common variations include the Dry Rob Roy, which uses dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth for a less sweet, sharper taste; the Sweet Rob Roy, which opts for more sweet vermouth for a sweeter profile; and the Perfect Rob Roy, which strikes a balance by using equal parts sweet and dry vermouth. These variations allow drinkers to enjoy the cocktail's distinctive flavor in a way that best suits their taste preferences.
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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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