Presbyterian Cocktail

The Presbyterian Cocktail deserves its time in the spotlight! This simple sipper with Scotch whisky and ginger ale is bubbly and delicious, with plenty of variations to fit any taste.

About this Presbyterian Cocktail recipe

Have you heard of the Presbyterian Cocktail? It’s been around since the 1950s or longer, but isn’t extremely common on most menus. I tried the Presbyterian at a bar many years ago and it was love at first sip. It’s kind of a cross between a Scotch & Soda and a Kentucky Mule or Whiskey Ginger.

While its exact origin is unknown, this cocktail is rumored to have started as a mocktail of just ginger ale and club soda. Cocktail parties were the current craze and it was the drink of choice for those who didn’t drink alcohol (often, Presbyterians) — hence the name. Scotch was later added, creating a simple, refreshing sipper. But that’s just one story. The folks at guys at Esquire say we can safely assume there is correlation between Scotch whiskey and the Church of Scotland, which is Presbyterian.

Wherever it comes from, this cocktail is super zippy and very customizable. I personally like making it with bourbon, for example. (My husband is the Scotch fanatic in our house!) However you make it, I know that this is going to be one of your new favorite recipes to enjoy!

More scotch recipes: Scotch Old-Fashioned • Whiskey Sour • Smoked Old-Fashioned • Penicillin Cocktail

Tools & glassware

Unlike some drinks, the Presbyterian doesn’t have a special glass. You can use your favorite highball glass ^*, collins glass ^* or even copper mugs ^*.

Once you’ve decided on your glassware, grab a bar spoon ^* and you’re ready to get mixing!

Ingredients

It’s a short list for this tasty cocktail. You’ll need:

• Scotch whisky
• Club soda
• Ginger ale
• Angostura bitters ^*

For a non-alcoholic sipper: Swap the whiskey for a zero-proof option and use non-alcoholic bitters ^*. You can buy a Ritual whiskey alternative ^* or make your own zero-proof whiskey right at home.

Ginger ale: Any ginger ale will work in this recipe, but if you want to control the flavor I can’t recommend making homemade ginger ale enough! You get to choose the balance between sweet and spicy, making the drink perfect for your taste buds. Ginger beer works too, but it’s a tad spicier.

Garnishes

I chose to use candied ginger as my garnish to play up the spice of the ginger ale. Fresh or dehydrated citrus would also work well in this drink to compliment its flavors — I’d lean toward either orange or lime.

A large ice cube makes an impact visually and also melts more slowly, so as you enjoy your bevvy on a hot day you aren’t left with a watered down drink.

Best Scotch whisky for a Presbyterian Cocktail

Any Scotch whisky will work well in this drink, so it really comes down to your personal preference. If you need some guidance, Punch pulled together a list of the best Scotch for cocktails. Monkey Shoulder or Glenfiddich 12 are their recommendations if you’re new to Scotch.

My husband, AKA the Scotch expert in our house, likes both of those and also Ardbeg 10 Year Old Single Malt Whisky. Be warned though, it’s very smoky!

Swap the Scotch for rye or bourbon whiskey instead for a softer taste, without the smoky, peatiness of Scotch. Rye whiskey will provide more of a bite while bourbon is sweeter. If you can’t decide, try the drink in several different ways before you pick your favorite!

Instructions

This drink comes together in a flash — and it’s so tasty, it may just disappear in one too! You can mix it right in your glass, no shaker needed.

First, fill your glass with ice. Measure out your whiskey, followed by the club soda and ginger ale. Next, add your bitters and give everything a gentle stir to mix. Garnish with candied ginger and you’re ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor!

FAQ

More ginger cocktail recipes

• Whiskey Smash
• Jameson, Ginger and Lime
• Jack and Ginger Ale