RattlesnakeCocktail recipe
Rating
The Rattlesnake cocktail is a tantalizing mix boasting a harmonious blend of flavors that pack a punch. This drink combines the spicy warmth of rye whiskey with the anise-like undertones of absinthe, balanced beautifully with the brightness of lemon juice and smoothed out by the richness of egg and the sweetness of sugar syrup.
Traditionally served in a cocktail glass, the Rattlesnake offers a sophisticated flavor profile that entices the palate with its complexity and depth. Perfect for cocktail aficionados seeking a drink with character and a hint of mystery, the Rattlesnake promises an unforgettable sipping experience.
Microbadges
Can you make this?
Add the ingredients you have at home to your My Bar and we'll show you what cocktails you can make. Start off by adding the ingredients you have for this cocktail using the plus icons.

Cocktail Colin says:
The Rattlesnake is an adventurous cocktail for those who appreciate a drink with depth and a striking balance of flavors. The warmth of the rye whiskey pairs excellently with the unique, herbal notes of absinthe, while the lemon juice adds a necessary zest that cuts through the richness of the egg and the mild sweetness of the syrup, crafting a complex beverage that's both bold and refreshingly intricate.
Method
How to make a Rattlesnake
-
- Begin by combining all your ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice
-
- Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, or until the shaker feels frosty on the outside, indicating the mix is well chilled
-
- Next, strain the mixture back into your shaker, but this time, remove the ice to proceed with a dry shake
-
- Without the ice, shake again for another 10-15 seconds to aerate the mix, creating a smoother texture
-
- Finally, fine strain the frothy liquid into a chilled glass to serve, ensuring a sleek presentation without any ice shards or pulp
Power tips
Elevate the Rattlesnake with these master mixologist tips
Upgrade to premium
And receive world class tips on how to raise your cocktails to the next level.
Find out more- Using fresh, high-quality rye whiskey elevates the depth and warmth of the Rattlesnake’s flavor profile, making all the difference in the complexity and finish of the drink.
- Consider using freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled juice. The bright acidity from fresh juice dramatically enhances the cocktail's balance.
- Subscribe to premium to receive even more power tips on this cocktail.
Your private tasting notes
Can you make this?
Add the ingredients you have at home to your My Bar and we'll show you what cocktails you can make. Start off by adding the ingredients you have for this cocktail using the plus icons.
Featured in
FAQ's

What is the origin of the Rattlesnake cocktail?
The Rattlesnake cocktail is believed to have originated in the early 20th century. It is often associated with the Prohibition era in the United States, where cocktails became complex to mask the taste of poorly made illegal spirits. Its exact origin, however, is not clearly documented, making it a beverage shrouded in some mystery.

Why is it called a Rattlesnake cocktail?
The name 'Rattlesnake' might be attributed to its potent combination of ingredients, particularly the use of rye whiskey and absinthe, which can 'bite' or 'sting' like a rattlesnake. The effect of the cocktail might similarly sneak up on consumers, making the name fitting for its impact.

Can I substitute the rye whiskey in a Rattlesnake cocktail?
Yes, you can substitute rye whiskey in a Rattlesnake cocktail, but this will alter the classic taste. Bourbon is a common substitute, offering a sweeter profile. Keep in mind that the substitution may change the cocktail's characteristics and flavor balance.

Is the egg in the Rattlesnake cocktail raw, and is it safe to consume?
Yes, the egg in the Rattlesnake cocktail is raw, specifically the egg white is used to add texture and a frothy head. Consuming raw egg whites is generally considered safe for most people, though there is a slight risk of salmonella. Using pasteurized eggs or egg whites can reduce this risk.

How should I serve a Rattlesnake cocktail to best enjoy its flavors?
A Rattlesnake cocktail should be served cold in a pre-chilled cocktail glass. The drink should be shaken vigorously with ice before being strained into the glass to create a smooth texture and frothy top. The cold temperature and frothy texture enhance the complex interplay of flavors from the rye whiskey, absinthe, and lemon juice.
Upgrade your mixology
Become a member for free taking your cocktail making skills up to level 11. Or become a premium member to rise to cocktail greatness.
- Save your bar forever
- Access to our Cocktail Creator, allowing you to create your own wonderful concoctions.
- Create personalised cocktail menus for all your events, bars or parties
- Save cocktails to personalised 'Tried' and 'Want to try' lists
- Create and record tasting notes on cocktails
- Create lists of cocktails to share with friends and family
- A personalised MyBar URL, allowing you to share everything you can make with friends
- And much more ... (what to buy next, measurement choices, search personalisation...)
Have you tried our Wordpress Plugin?
Download our plugin and embed cocktail recipes directly onto your own site or blog.
Choose from our whole recipe database, or choose a specific cocktail made with a certain ingredient, and let us place a beautiful recipe on your own site.
Find out moreYou might also like
Blinker
The Blinker cocktail, a classic concoction dating back to the prohibition era, represents a harmony of tart and sweet flavors,...
Perfect Manhattan
Slight variation on the typical Manhattan recipe. Rather than just sweet vermouth, there is an equal amount of dry vermouth.
Prince of Wales
From Wikipedia: "Prince of Wales is a cocktail composed by Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, later to become King Edward...
Manhattan
The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that exudes elegance and sophistication, offering a harmonious blend of red vermouth, Angostura bitters,...

Create a cocktail
Choose a theme and some ingredients, give us some description and we'll create an amazing cocktail for you.
Register as a Premium Make Me a Cocktail community member and get access to an even more powerful creator.
Start creatingBuild your bar
Tell us what you have at home and we’ll find a delicious cocktail for you to make right now.
Register as a Make Me a Cocktail community member and we’ll save your ingredients list so you can come back to it at any time.
Create My Bar
Comments
No comments yet…
You need to be a user with a verified email to comment on cocktails. Login / register