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BFG
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.45 / 5
The BFG cocktail, a creation by Adam Elmegirab, emerged victorious in the 2010 Drambuie UK Cocktail Competition, drawing inspiration from classic recipes like the Rusty Nail and the Sweet Fancy Rob Roy. Named as a tribute to the early "B.I.F." cocktail from the British Industries Fair, the BFG blends 15ml of whiskey with 45ml of Drambuie, 30ml of red vermouth, and a dash of Angostura bitters to create a harmonious fusion of flavors. This sophisticated mix offers the rich, malty depth of whiskey complemented by the sweet, herbal complexity of Drambuie and the smooth, aromatic notes of red vermouth. The addition of Angostura bitters adds a subtle spice, enhancing the cocktail’s layered profile. Whether enjoyed in a historic bar setting or a modern lounge, the BFG stands out as a testament to timeless craftsmanship and innovative mixology, delivering a taste experience that honors its storied past while embracing contemporary flair.
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Cocktail Of The Day
Base ingredient
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Whiskey
Calories
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150 calories
Alcohol content
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32% | 2.88 units *

Tags

Whiskey ingredient icon
Whiskey cocktails
Drambuie ingredient icon
Top ten Drambuie cocktails

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Whiskey cocktail ingredient icon for the BFG cocktail
Whiskey
Drambuie cocktail ingredient icon for the BFG cocktail
Drambuie
Angostura Bitters cocktail ingredient icon for the BFG cocktail
Angostura Bitters
Red vermouth cocktail ingredient icon for the BFG cocktail
Red vermouth
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

4/5

The BFG is a masterclass in balance and complexity, with the smokey depth of whiskey mingling beautifully with the honeyed spice of Drambuie. The addition of red vermouth brings a sweet vermouthiness that rounds out the drink, while the infrequent dash of Angostura or Boker's bitters introduces a subtle aromatic backbone that elevates the entire concoction.

Method
How to make a BFG

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all the ingredients into a mixing glass with ice
Stir for 10-15 secs and strain into a chilled cocktail glass and serve
~ The exact recipe for this drink used Noilly Prat Rogue, ten year old Laphroaig and two dashes of Dr Adam Elmegirab's Boker's Bitters. ~

Power tips
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Use a high-quality single malt whiskey to add depth and complexity to the cocktail.
Chill your mixing glass in the freezer for a few minutes before preparing the cocktail to enhance the coldness and give a better mouthfeel.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Stir  ·  Strain  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the origin of the name BFG for this cocktail?

The name "BFG" for this cocktail pays homage to the early combination of whisky and Drambuie found in historical recipes. Adam Elmegirab, who introduced the BFG, acknowledged the influence of earlier drinks like the 1937 "Johnnie of Skye" and the 1966 "Braemer Cocktail," which featured similar ingredients in varying proportions. By naming his creation BFG, Elmegirab referenced the "B.I.F." cocktail from the British Industries Fair in Birmingham, highlighting the longstanding tradition of blending these spirits. Elmegirab developed the BFG specifically for the 2010 Drambuie UK Cocktail Competition, where it won acclaim. He designed the drink with the competition’s lead judge, Simon Difford, in mind, particularly considering Difford’s search for the ideal whisky to complement a Rusty Nail. The choice of Laphroaig 10-year-old whisky played a crucial role in defining the BFG’s unique flavor profile, effectively bridging classic cocktail elements with modern mixology techniques. This thoughtful creation not only honored its historical roots but also showcased Elmegirab’s innovative approach to cocktail crafting.

Garnishing tips icon

How should I garnish a BFG cocktail?

The BFG cocktail, with its mixture of whiskey, Drambuie, Angostura bitters, and red vermouth, lends itself well to garnishes that complement its rich and bitter profile. An orange twist or a cherry would be suitable, adding a touch of sweetness or citrus to balance the drink's flavors. Always consider the main ingredients' flavor profiles when choosing a garnish to enhance the cocktail's overall experience.

Faq icon

Can I use any type of whiskey for the BFG cocktail?

Yes, you can use any type of whiskey for the BFG cocktail, but the choice of whiskey can significantly influence the drink's flavor profile. A smoother, lighter whiskey like Irish whiskey can make the cocktail more approachable, while a robust Scotch whisky or a bourbon with richer flavors can add depth and complexity. Experimenting with different whiskeys allows you to customize the cocktail to your taste preferences.

Faq icon

What makes a cocktail glass the preferred choice for serving the BFG?

A cocktail glass is preferred for serving the BFG for several reasons. The shape of the glass, typically a stemmed glass with a wide bowl that narrows at the bottom, is designed to showcase the cocktail's appearance, concentrate its aromas for a more intense olfactory experience, and maintain its temperature. The elegance of the cocktail glass also complements the sophisticated blend of ingredients in the BFG, enhancing the overall drinking experience.

Faq icon

Is the BFG cocktail suitable for those new to whiskey drinks?

The BFG cocktail, with its blend of whiskey, Drambuie, Angostura bitters, and red vermouth, offers a unique combination of flavors that might be more appreciated by those with some experience with whiskey drinks. However, its relatively moderate alcohol content and the smoothing effect of Drambuie's honeyed sweetness make it an approachable option for those new to whiskey cocktails willing to explore more complex flavors.

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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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