The Rusty Nail Cocktail: A Classic Elixir of Timeless Elegance

The Rusty Nail Cocktail: A Classic Elixir of Timeless Elegance

By Author

Published on October 18, 2023

The world of mixology is a treasure trove of cocktails, each with their own unique story, flavor, and charm. Among these, the Rusty Nail cocktail stands as a classic elixir with an intriguing history and a taste that has stood the test of time. With its simple yet harmonious combination of Scotch whisky and Drambuie, the Rusty Nail has been a favorite for generations, offering a delightful blend of warmth, sweetness, and sophistication.

This old man’s drink is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century, at a time when cocktails were celebrated for their simplicity and elegance. Its birthplace is often attributed to the United States, and its rise in popularity can be partly credited to the renowned British actor Sir Rex Harrison. As the story goes, Sir Rex Harrison, famous for his role in “My Fair Lady,” was introduced to the cocktail in a New York bar. The actor was so enamored with the smooth blend of Scotch and Drambuie that he regularly ordered it, helping to spread its fame.

The core of the Rusty Nail’s character lies in its two primary ingredients: Scotch whisky and Drambuie. Scotch whisky, celebrated for its rich, smoky notes, provides the cocktail with a robust foundation. Drambuie, on the other hand, is a sweet and golden liqueur with a history dating back to the 18th century. It’s made from a blend of Scotch whisky, honey, herbs, and spices. This pairing of Scotch and Drambuie creates a unique balance in the cocktail.

Recipe 

Creating a Rusty Nail is as simple as it is satisfying. To craft this timeless elixir, you'll need the following:

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz of Scotch whisky

  • 1 oz of Drambuie

  • Ice

  • Lemon twist or orange peel (for garnish, if desired)

Instructions:

  1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.

  2. Pour in the Scotch whisky and Drambuie.

  3. Stir the mixture gently to chill the cocktail and blend the flavors.

  4. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.

  5. Garnish with a twist of lemon or an orange peel for an aromatic touch.

The result is a cocktail that exudes an aura of sophistication. The robustness of the Scotch whisky marries perfectly with the sweet, herbal notes of Drambuie. It’s a concoction that envelops the senses in warmth, making it ideal for sipping slowly and savoring every sip.

The Rusty Nail cocktail’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless appeal. It is a drink that transcends trends and fads, evoking a sense of nostalgia for some and sparking curiosity for others. In a world where cocktail menus are constantly evolving, the Rusty Nail remains a steadfast choice for those who appreciate the classics.

As you raise a Rusty Nail to your lips, you're not just sipping a cocktail; you're savoring a piece of history. You're indulging in the same harmonious blend that Sir Rex Harrison once found irresistible. The Rusty Nail is a testament to the fact that, in the world of cocktails, some classics are, indeed, timeless.

In the grand world of mixology, the Rusty Nail stands as a testament to the enduring allure of simplicity and balance. Its story and flavor profile remind us that, in a world of ever-changing tastes, some classics will always have a place at the bar. So, the next time you seek an elixir that exudes sophistication and history, reach for a Rusty Nail, and transport yourself to an era of timeless elegance.


Monkey Shoulder & Ospree Duty-Free Create Buzz with ‘Liquid On Lips’ Travel Retail Activation

Monkey Shoulder & Ospree Duty-Free Create Buzz with ‘Liquid On Lips’ Travel Retail Activation

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 20, 2025

In a bold and spirited collaboration, Ospree Duty-Free and Monkey Shoulder have stirred up excitement across airport terminals with their latest experiential campaign — “Liquid On Lips.” Designed to break the monotony of traditional airport shopping, this activation turned duty-free into a vibrant playground for travelers.

The journey began the moment passengers were chauffeured to the store in Monkey Shoulder-branded buggies, making a bold first impression. On arrival, they were welcomed with a complimentary shot of Monkey Shoulder, setting the tone for an immersive in-store experience.

Inside the Ospree Duty-Free departure outlets, tent cards, branded communication, and voucher distribution helped guide customers through each touchpoint. The business assistance team further enhanced the engagement by educating guests about the activation, ensuring every traveller got the full Monkey Shoulder experience.

Adding to the buzz was a giant mixer truck stationed at the terminal, where a live DJ spun a specially curated Monkey Shoulder playlist. The festive vibe spilled across the space, complemented by exclusive giveaways like branded coasters that added a memorable takeaway for shoppers.

The “Liquid On Lips” campaign is more than just a product promotion—it’s a clever reimagination of how lifestyle brands can create storytelling-led engagement at high-traffic travel hubs. By turning routine shopping into a sensory celebration, Monkey Shoulder and Ospree Duty-Free have successfully tapped into the modern traveler’s desire for experiences over transactions.

A spokesperson from Ospree Duty Free shared, “This collaboration with Monkey Shoulder is truly one-of-a-kind, and we're proud to bring something so fresh and engaging. The DJ setup, the larger-than-life truck, branded golf carts, and the whole Liquid On Lips vibe creates a fun, experiential moment for travellers ensuring to cover each touch point. At Ospree Duty Free, we're always looking to create new ways for travellers to pause, engage, and take back a unique memory, and this one checks all the boxes.”

From interactive buggies and in-store activations to curated music and clever branding, this campaign highlights the rising relevance of experiential travel retail, making "Liquid On Lips" not just an event, but a moment travelers will remember long after takeoff.


Stone Wood Hosts Goa Travel Agents at Aralea Beach Resort to Strengthen Tourism Ties

Stone Wood Hosts Goa Travel Agents at Aralea Beach Resort to Strengthen Tourism Ties

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 20, 2025

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts recently brought together over 60 travel professionals from across Goa for an exclusive meet-up at its stunning Aralea Beach Resort, Morjim. The scenic gathering set the stage for a meaningful afternoon of connection, collaboration, and conversation—focused on enhancing Goa’s presence as a leading destination for travellers.

Hosted with a blend of relaxed charm and business purpose, the event underscored Stone Wood’s continued commitment to strengthening partnerships within the travel ecosystem. From industry insights to discussions on guest experience enhancement, the meet-up served as a platform for open dialogue and mutual growth.

image

We are delighted to have brought together such a vibrant community of travel professionals under one roof,” said Shikhar Kumar, Managing Director of Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts. “This gathering represents our ongoing commitment to building stronger partnerships that will ultimately benefit travelers seeking exceptional experiences in Goa. The enthusiasm and expertise shared by our guests reinforces our belief in the collaborative spirit that drives our industry forward.”

Set against Morjim’s serene shoreline, Aralea Beach Resort offered the perfect venue—providing not only breathtaking views and premium hospitality but also a real-time showcase of what Stone Wood stands for: quality, comfort, and thoughtful service.

image

Abhijit Dey, Vice President of Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts, added: “The meet-up exemplifies the power of bringing together diverse perspectives from across the travel ecosystem. The insights shared by our esteemed travel agent partners will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and enhance our offerings. These collaborative efforts ensure that we remain at the forefront of delivering seamless and memorable experiences for every guest.”

From immersive conversations to first-hand property experiences, every detail of the event reflected the brand’s guest-first approach and forward-looking vision. As Goa’s tourism landscape continues to evolve, Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts is actively shaping that future—focusing on sustainable growth, stronger collaborations, and exceptional hospitality.


AHP Hospitality Challenge & Awards 2025 Returns with Focus on Skill, Scale & Inclusion

AHP Hospitality Challenge & Awards 2025 Returns with Focus on Skill, Scale & Inclusion

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 19, 2025

The Association of Hospitality Professionals (AHP) is gearing up for the 8th edition of its flagship event, the AHP Hospitality Challenge & Awards 2025, bringing together the best of India’s hospitality talent this July. Known for its nationwide impact and industry relevance, this year’s edition raises the bar once again with a sharp focus on skill development, scale, and inclusivity.

Running from 3rd to 9th July, with the grand awards night on 30th July at The Suryaa, New Delhi, the event offers a dynamic blend of competitions and recognitions across hospitality domains—culinary arts, front office, F&B service, and housekeeping. With over 300 participants, judged by 50 distinguished jury members across 20+ competition categories, the platform reflects the depth and dedication of India’s hospitality sector.

image

AHP has carefully curated a multi-venue format to provide a professional, real-world setting for each skill category:

  • Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management (3–5 July): Culinary Challenges

  • Indian Hotel Academy (8 July): Front Office Master

  • Radisson Blu, Paschim Vihar (9 July): Art of Bed Making & Towel Folding

  • The Suryaa, New Delhi (7 & 30 July): War of Spirits, Table Setting, and Awards Ceremony

image

Vinod Gulati, President of the AHP Executive Committee, shares:
"Hospitality is a deeply human profession. This platform recognises the unseen excellence of those who shape guest experiences every day. It’s their moment to shine."

A cornerstone of the 2025 edition is “Sashakt – Empowering Special Ability Professionals”. This initiative invites specially-abled individuals to participate in the same categories as their peers, without separate judging criteria. By offering equal opportunity and thoughtful accommodations, AHP champions inclusion and celebrates skill over limitations, pushing forward a hospitality culture that’s accessible to all.

image

From live cooking showdowns and F&B innovation to bed-making artistry, towel folding, and front office simulations, every contest is designed to challenge and celebrate the multidimensional nature of hospitality.

Devipshita Gautam, Founder and General Secretary of AHP, adds:

"This isn’t just a competition—it’s a tribute to intent and craftsmanship. As we host the 8th edition, we reaffirm that hospitality is more than service—it’s a calling, deserving pride and visibility."

The event culminates in a grand recognition ceremony on 30th July, where AHP will present the Hospitality Excellence Awards 2025, Tourism Excellence Awards, and Food Awards. The honours will celebrate individuals and institutions alike—from chefs and housekeepers to boutique hotels and sustainable dining brands—that define excellence in India’s hospitality industry.

As a not-for-profit organisation registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860, AHP continues to elevate India’s hospitality community through skill competitions, award platforms, training initiatives, and industry collaborations—fueling pride, performance, and progress in one of the world’s most human-centric professions.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.