The Scofflaw is a classic bourbon-based cocktail. This lovely drink was named after those who scoffed the law by drinking during the Prohibition.
Bourbon lovers will also like the Cherry Bomb
Post may contain affiliate links. For more information, check my disclosure
We need to have a word about The Scofflaw. Because it is OH SO GOOD. This is the type of cocktail that after you make it for the first time you go knock on your neighbour’s door and say “come over you must try this!”.
Then, I swear to you, you have an impromptu party on your hands. This is the kind of drink you introduce to bartenders on a night out which they then proceed to add to their menu on the spot (true story).
We discovered the Scofflaw via The Spirits book (my favourite cocktail bible) I have been going on and on about recently.
A scofflaw is someone who ‘scoffs at the law’ by drinking illegally and since this cocktail was created at Harry’s Bar in Paris during the prohibition the name is nothing short of inspired.
But back to the Scofflaw… The first time I made this I had no grenadine and so I used pomegranate molasses and a little simple syrup in its place. This works quite well and makes for a slightly less sweet – and less pink – cocktail.
The original recipe also calls for the Scofflaw to be strained into a chilled cocktail glass – not served on the rocks.
Since this is quite a strong drink I don’t mind a little ice (especially when it is star shaped!) but I will leave the serving up to you.
The Scofflaw – a must make bourbon cocktail
Ingredients
- 30 ml | 1oz bourbon
- 30 ml | 1 oz dry vermouth used Noilly Pratt
- 15 ml | 1/2oz lemon juice
- 1-2 tsp grenadine
- dash orange bitters used Angostura bitters
- lemon twist to garnish optional
Instructions
- Chill a martini or coupe glass in the freezer. Alternatively use a rocks glass (as pictured).
- Add everything to a cocktail shaker half filled with ice and shake hard for 30 seconds.
- Strain into your chilled cocktail glass or serve in a rocks glass with ice. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Dulcie Wilcox says
This bourbon lover is intrigued.
Jo Hutchinson says
Beautiful photos.
Louise | Cygnet Kitchen says
You know I am a huge fan of your cocktails Lucy, there has to be a book soon surely! This is as stunning as ever! Merry Christmas to you and your family! xxx
Hannah Hossack-Lodge says
This sounds amazing, and dangerous! I rarely drink at home but your beautiful cocktail posts always make me crave one
Angela Field says
Lucy I don't know how you do it, but you manage to photograph cocktails so beautifully. This looks like an amazing combination – I never drink Whiskey or Bourbon based cocktails, but I think I might have to rectify that.
William G says
What do you do to enter the competition if you don't have a smartphone or tablet, and therefore no Instagram?
Julia@Vikalinka says
Why oh why are we not neighbours!!! I would love surprise visits from you! Such gorgeous looking cocktail, I am off to recreate it to the best of my ability!
Beverley says
Fabulous sounding cocktail! Love it!
Little Sunny Kitchen says
This cocktail sounds interesting and I love bourbon! Stunning pictures Lucy!
Kate Hackworthy says
A cocktail that causes an impromptu party, that's one to try! Sounds gorgeous.