A Boy Named Sue Cocktail: A Smoky Blend Of Scotch

A Boy Named Sue Cocktail

The Boy Named Sue cocktail recipe is a unique and flavorful drink that combines the smokiness  of blended Scotch whiskies with the acidity of lemon juice, the sweetness of turmeric simple syrup, and the richness of heavy cream, topped off with the bubbles of soda water.

This drink showcases how diverse ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to make the Boy Named Sue cocktail, including a recipe for homemade turmeric simple syrup.


Boy Named Sue Cocktail Ingredients:

  • Johnnie Walker Black Label Blended Scotch (1 ounce / 30 ml): Offers a deep, complex flavor with smoky notes.
  • The Famous Grouse The Black Grouse Blended Scotch (1/2 ounce / 15 ml): Adds a rich, peaty dimension.
  • Lemon Juice (1/2 ounce / 15 ml, freshly squeezed): Provides a sharp, refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the syrup and the richness of the cream.
  • Turmeric Simple Syrup (3/4 ounce / 22.5 ml): A homemade syrup that brings an earthy sweetness and a vibrant color to the cocktail.
  • Egg White (1): Creates a silky texture and a frothy top layer. (How to separate egg whites).
  • Heavy Cream (1/4 ounce / 7.5 ml): Contributes a luxurious creaminess.
  • Soda Water (3 ounces / 90 ml): Adds a light, refreshing fizz.
  • Garnish: Sumac Powder: Gives a tangy, lemony finish that complements the cocktail’s flavors.

Boy Named Sue Cocktail Recipe:

  1. Prepare Turmeric Simple Syrup:
    • Combine 1 1/4 cups of water and 120 ml (4 ounces) of fresh turmeric root in a blender, blending on high for 30 seconds. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of sugar, cooking for 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
  2. Mix the Cocktail:
    • In a cocktail shaker, combine 30 ml (1 ounce) of Johnnie Walker Black Label, 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of The Famous Grouse The Black Grouse, 15 ml (1/2 ounce) of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 22.5 ml (3/4 ounce) of turmeric simple syrup, one egg white, and 7.5 ml (1/4 ounce) of heavy cream. Start with a dry shake (without ice) to emulsify the egg white, shaking vigorously.
  3. Shake with Ice:
    • Add ice to the shaker and shake again until the mixture is well-chilled. This step ensures the cocktail is cold and adds a smooth texture.
  4. Serve:
    • Strain the chilled cocktail into a highball glass filled with fresh ice, creating a layering effect.
  5. Top and Garnish:
    • Gently top the cocktail with 90 ml (3 ounces) of soda water, adding a refreshing fizz. Finish by garnishing with a light dusting of sumac powder for a tangy, aromatic touch.

The Boy Named Sue Cocktail

The Boy Named Sue cocktail is a blend of smoky, sweet, tart, and creamy elements, making it a standout drink for those who love complexity in their cocktails.

With its homemade turmeric simple syrup and the balance of Scotch whiskies, lemon juice, cream, and soda water, this cocktail offers a sensory experience. The addition of sumac powder as a garnish enhances the drink’s flavor profile.Whether for a special occasion or a casual gathering, the Boy Named Sue promises to delight and surprise with its depth of flavor and elegant presentation.

Check out more turmeric cocktail recipes and whiskey cocktail recipes.