The History of the Rob Roy

Jump to the Rob Roy recipe

An irresistible combination of vermouth, Scotch whisky, and bitters, the Rob Roy is a smooth, tasty cocktail often compared to the Manhattan. The distinguishing factor, however, is that the Rob Roy exclusively uses Scotch whisky. Unlike many classic cocktails shrouded in mystery, the history of the Rob Roy is quite well-documented and widely accepted.

TL;DR

• The Rob Roy cocktail is made with Scotch whisky, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
• It was created in 1894 at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in honor of Scottish folk hero Rob Roy MacGregor.
• Variations include Perfect Rob Roy, Dry Rob Roy, and the Manhattan, a related cocktail with rye whisky.
• Modern twists involve experimenting with different whiskies, vermouths, and bitters for unique flavors.

Who Invented the Rob Roy Cocktail?

The Rob Roy cocktail was invented in honor of the Scottish folk hero Robert Roy MacGregor, popularly known as Rob Roy. Born in 1671, Rob Roy was an outlaw who lived in the Scottish Highlands and became a symbol of defiance against oppression. He is often likened to Robin Hood, as he is said to have stolen from the rich to support the poor. His notoriety and subsequent legend led to embellished folk tales, which eventually earned him a royal pardon in 1726.

Rob Roy's life and adventures continued to capture imaginations long after his death in 1734. In 1894, his exploits were immortalized in an opera written by Harry B. Smith and composed by Reginald De Koven. Anticipated to be a grand event, the opera premiered in New York City. A bartender at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, located near the theatre, decided to honor this Scottish hero by creating a new cocktail, aptly naming it the Rob Roy.

The Ingredients

The traditional recipe for a Rob Roy includes:

• 45ml Scotch whisky: The quintessential ingredient that differentiates this cocktail from its American cousin, the Manhattan.
• 25ml Sweet red vermouth: Adds a mellow, herbaceous sweetness to counterbalance the whisky.
• Dash of Angostura bitters: Offers a nuanced complexity to the overall flavor.

Optionally, the drink can be garnished with a cherry or an orange twist.

Variations of the Rob Roy Cocktail

While the Rob Roy itself is a unique drink, there are several fascinating variations and related cocktails that offer complementary flavors and experiences:

Perfect Rob Roy

The Perfect Rob Roy uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth, creating a balanced flavor profile that tempers the sweetness with a touch of dryness. This variation is ideal for those who find the original Rob Roy too sweet but still want to retain its Scotch base.

Dry Rob Roy

If you prefer a less sweet drink, the Dry Rob Roy can be made by completely replacing the sweet vermouth with dry vermouth. This version offers a crisper, slightly more austere taste, showcasing the Scotch's nuances more prominently.

Manhattan

A close relative to the Rob Roy is the Manhattan, which uses rye whisky instead of Scotch, along with sweet vermouth and bitters. The Manhattan has its own array of variations, such as the:

• Perfect Manhattan: Uses both sweet and dry vermouth and typically employs rye whisky. The garnish remains a classic cherry.
• Brooklyn: Utilizes rye whisky and dry vermouth, but adds a splash of maraschino liqueur and French bitters for a sweet-sour twist.

Modern Twists

The Rob Roy also invites many contemporary interpretations. Bartenders love to experiment with different brands and types of whiskies and vermouths, as each brings a unique character to the cocktail. Feel free to play around with these ingredients until you find your perfect Rob Roy:

• Trying different Scotch regions—like using a smoky Islay Scotch versus a smoother Speyside—to add distinct flavors.
• Replacing Angostura bitters with other types of bitters like orange or chocolate bitters for an intriguing twist.
• Incorporating a dash of liqueurs like Drambuie to add complexity and a hint of sweetness.

A Timeless Classic

Whether you are a dedicated whisky enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of Scotch, the Rob Roy serves as a sophisticated yet approachable cocktail. Its storied history, rooted in the legend of Rob Roy MacGregor, adds an air of romance and adventure to every glass. The versatility and depth of this drink make it a favorite in both classic bars and modern mixology settings. Raise a glass to the Scottish Robin Hood and enjoy a timeless sip!