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23rd June 2025, 11:00 AM

WATCH: The Penicillin cocktail made by Rico!

We’re back! That’s right, it’s time for a new season of Absolut Drinks with Rico. And in this first episode, we’re not holding back! Rico shows you how to make none other than the Penicillin! 

The Penicillin cocktail is a modern classic that was created in New York in 2005 by a legendary Australian bartender living in New York. The bar itself was one of the most influential bars of the 21st. century. 

Is the Penicillin a popular drink? 

Yes, you could say that! Since its invention in the early 2000s, the Penicillin cocktail quickly became one of the most popular drinks in bars all around the world.  

In fact, in 2024, the Penicillin cocktail is said to be the 11th most commonly ordered cocktail at bars worldwide. 

But hey, you don’t need to go to a bar to enjoy a Penicillin cocktail. As Rico demonstrates, it’s actually an easy to make cocktail at home. So, if you want to wow your friends, you gotta make this one. 

So, what does a Penicillin cocktail taste like? 

It was inspired by the Gold Rush, another drink created by the same Aussie bartender living in New York. By extension, you could also say the Gold Rush is similar to a Whiskey Sour. 

The Penicillin cocktail is made with Blended Scotch, Ginger Liqueur, Lemon Juice, Honey Syrup and a hint of Peated Single Malt Islay Whisky. Intriguing, huh? 

Rico? “It’s light and fresh. There’s some smokiness from the Peated Single Malt Islay Whisky, a little bit of fieriness from the Ginger, and the Scotch Whisky that brings it all together,” says Rico.  

Hot tip! To perfect your Penicillin cocktail, choose the best Ginger Liqueur you can afford. “Choose something with a little bit of punchiness and something that has a strong Ginger flavor,” shares Rico. Trust us, the flavor of Ginger really comes through in this drink, so make sure you choose a Ginger Liqueur you really enjoy. 

Now grab your shaker, hit play and get mixing! 

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