Introducing the SLTN Serves ‘Stories Worth Sipping’ Cocktail Competition finalists
Poet’s Nightcap
By Scott Dunlop, of The Spiritualist, Aberdeen
“Inspired by a summer evening in Toronto, this cocktail is my tribute to a memorable experience delivered by a Czech bartender known as V. His suggestion of the Bobby Burns was something new yet familiar.
Growing up in Ayr, neighbouring Alloway – which is the birthplace of Robert Burns – I’ve always felt a quiet connection to tradition and storytelling. This drink reflects that spirit.
“I’ve added my own touches, crafting a house-made salted vanilla cordial, infusing the entire serve with black cardamom and wood chips for a subtle aged character, and choosing Drambuie over Bénédictine to root the drink firmly in my heritage.
Though the true origins of the Bobby Burns cocktail are unclear, I like to think it stands as a quiet nod to Rabbie himself.
Like ‘a cup o’ kindness’ from Auld Lang Syne, it speaks to memory, and shared moments which resonates to me, my roots in Scotland and travels to Toronto, all captured within a glass.
Slà inte!
Why can’t the presentation be as poetic as the drink?
The hand-crafted preserved moss platter symbolises the heather and process going into preserving a thatched roof, much like Rabbie Burns’ cottage.”
The Poet’s Nightcap:
- 15ml Fettercairn 12 PX cask
- 15ml Woodford Reserve
- 30ml Sweet Vermouth
- 5ml Drambuie
- 15ml Salted Vanilla Cordial
