The Rob Roy is a Scotch whisky-based cocktail.
The Rob Roy is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, a time when cocktails were flourishing in popularity. It is named after the Scottish folk hero and outlaw, Robert Roy MacGregor, immortalizing his legacy in a refined beverage.
The cocktail pays homage to both Scottish heritage and the era’s fascination with classic mixed drinks.
While some published examples from that era bear the Rob Roy name, their recipes often deviate significantly from the drink we recognize today. The true origins of the drink, however, likely precede its nomenclature.
Before the name Rob Roy gained prominence, the drink was frequently dubbed a Manhattan, distinguished by the specification of Scotch whisky as the preferred spirit. This earlier incarnation hints at the drink’s evolution, laying the foundation for what would eventually become the distinct and revered Rob Roy cocktail.
Rob Roy Cocktail Ingredients
- Scotch Whisky (60 ml / 2 ounces): Scotch whisky forms the heart of the Rob Roy, contributing its distinct smokiness.
- Sweet Vermouth (30 ml / 1 ounce): Sweet vermouth adds a touch of sweetness and herbal depth.
- Angostura Bitters (2 dashes): Angostura bitters provide a subtle complexity and enhance the overall aromatic profile of the cocktail.
Rob Roy Cocktail Recipe
- Collect Tools & Ingredients: You’ll need a mixing glass, jigger, barspoon, strainer, Scotch whisky, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
- Chill the Glass: Place your glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill.
- Combine Ingredients: In the mixing glass, add 2 ounces of Scotch whisky, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
- Mix with Ice: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 15-20 seconds for proper chilling and mixing.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into your chilled glass.
- Optional Orange Peel Garnish: Optionally, twist an orange peel over the drink to release its oils for added aroma, then either place it in the glass or discard it.
The Rob Roy Cocktail – A Scotch Treat
The Rob Roy cocktail is thought to have emerged around 1894 at the original Waldorf Astoria location on Fifth Avenue in New York City, following the performance of an operetta named Rob Roy at the nearby Herald Square Theatre.
This inspiration came from the operetta, composed by Reginald De Koven and with lyrics by Harry B. Smith, which loosely depicted the Scottish folk hero, Rob Roy MacGregor.
Frank Caiafa, a bartender in NYC and author of The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book, sheds light on the drink’s origins. Although there were early 20th-century cocktails titled Rob Roy, bearing little resemblance to the modern recipe, the original drink likely existed before its name became popular. Initially, it was akin to a Manhattan, but with Scotch whisky specified as the primary spirit.
Check out some other types of Manhattan cocktails.
