Irish Nail

Irish Nail

The Hibernian counterpart to the classic Scotch-based Rusty Nail, a simple and profound cocktail with robust Irish whiskey and the honeyed, herbal liqueur Irish Mist.

39%

ABV

208

Calories

Rocks

Glass

Flavor Profile

Flavor Journey

4
Sweet
0
Sour
2
Bitter
9
Strong

Ingredients

Each component plays a crucial role.

Method

Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.

1

Chill an Old Fashioned glass with a large ice cube.

2

In a separate mixing glass filled with ice, pour the Irish whiskey and Irish Mist.

3

Stir for 20-30 seconds until well-chilled.

4

Strain into the prepared Old Fashioned glass.

5

Garnish with an expressed orange peel.

Glassware

Rocks

Served in a heavy, crystal Old Fashioned or rocks glass

Garnish

Orange twist

A wide swath of orange peel, expressed over the drink

Master's Tips

Professional insights to elevate your craft

A whiskey-forward ratio (2:¾) is preferred to allow the character of the Irish whiskey to shine.

Serve over a large, dense ice cube to minimize dilution and maintain the optimal temperature.

The expressed oils from the orange peel are a crucial aromatic component that brightens the drink.

Variations & Riffs

Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Irish Nail.

History & Heritage

The Irish Nail, also known as the Black Nail, emerged in the late 1940s or early 1950s following the creation of Irish Mist liqueur in 1947. It was a logical Irish counterpart to the Scotch-based Rusty Nail, combining Irish whiskey with the new honey and herbal liqueur.

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