Cameron's Kick Cocktail recipe
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Cameron’s Kick is a bright, nutty whisky sour that stands out for its split base of Scotch whisky and Irish whisky. You’ll find it most often discussed as a vintage-style cocktail from the early 20th century, when bartenders leaned on small tweaks—like blending whiskies and adding almond syrup—to create new signatures without straying far from the sour template. Its enduring appeal is how it bridges two whisky traditions in one compact, cocktail-glass serve.
This is a great choice when you want something whisky-forward but not heavy—ideal as a pre-dinner drink or for anyone who enjoys sours with a slightly creamy, almond-tinged finish. Serve it when you’re in the mood for a classic-leaning cocktail that feels both familiar and a little different, especially if you like comparing Scotch and Irish side by side.
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Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Scotch whisky and Irish whisky lead with layered malt and soft grain, sharpened by lemon juice while orgeat syrup adds creamy almond sweetness, all loosened by water into a brisk, silky sip. The split whiskies give depth without heaviness, and the lemon’s snap keeps the orgeat from cloying; ideal for sour lovers who want nutty richness and whisky character without aggressive heat.
Method
How to make a Cameron's Kick
- Whiskey 30ml (Scotch whisky), Whiskey 30ml (Irish whisky), Lemon juice 15ml, Orgeat syrup 10ml, Water 15ml
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- Begin by combining all your ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice
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- Give it a robust shake for about 10-15 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels cold and frosted
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- Next, grab a fine strainer to help ensure your drink is smooth and free from unwanted ice chips
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- Pour the mixture through the strainer into a glass that's been chilled, to keep your cocktail perfectly cool
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- Enjoy your freshly crafted drink right away for the best taste and experience
Power tips
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Find out more- Use a mix of both Irish and Scotch whiskeys to add a wider range of flavor notes. The Irish whiskey's smoothness and Scotch's peaty characteristics make a harmonious blend.
- Lightly mist the finished cocktail with a few drops of orange blossom water. This adds a floral note that enhances the drink's complexity.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail
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FAQ's
What is the origin of Cameron's Kick?
Cameron's Kick is a classic cocktail with a somewhat mysterious origin, often categorized under the Prohibition era cocktails. Its first recorded appearance is in the cocktail manuals of the 1920s, but specifics about its creator or geographical origin remain unclear. The combination of two types of whiskey suggests a blend of Irish and Scottish traditions, possibly indicating a nod to a person of Scottish descent named Cameron.
Can I use only one type of whiskey in Cameron's Kick?
While the original recipe for Cameron's Kick calls for equal parts of two different types of whiskey, typically Scotch and Irish whiskey, it is possible to make it with just one type if you prefer. The dual whiskey blend is intended to create a unique flavor profile; however, using a single type of whiskey will alter the taste but can still result in a delicious cocktail. Experimentation is encouraged to find the blend or single option that best suits your palette.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of Cameron's Kick?
Creating a non-alcoholic version of Cameron's Kick involves substituting the alcoholic ingredients with their non-alcoholic counterparts. Non-alcoholic whiskeys are available on the market, and you can use them in place of traditional whiskeys. For the orgeat syrup and lemon juice components, follow the same measurements as in the alcoholic version. The essence of the drink is maintained by mimicking the complexity of the flavor profile.
What does orgeat syrup add to Cameron's Kick?
Orgeat syrup is a sweet syrup made from almonds, sugar, and rose water or orange flower water. In Cameron's Kick, orgeat syrup adds a distinctive nutty flavor and sweetness that balances the tartness of the lemon juice and the robustness of the whiskey. It is a key ingredient that contributes to the cocktail's unique taste and complexity.
Why is Cameron's Kick not shaken or stirred?
Cameron's Kick is built directly in the glass or mixed gently in a mixing glass and then strained. The rationale behind not shaking or stirring vigorously is to maintain the nuanced flavors and textures of the whiskeys, orgeat syrup, and lemon juice. Shaking, especially, can dilute the drink more than desired and alter its character. A gentle mix ensures that the dense, nuanced flavors of each ingredient are respected and preserved.
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