Affinity Cocktail (Scotch + Vermouth Classic)

Smooth, balanced, and quietly powerful, the Affinity Cocktail blends Scotch whisky with both sweet and dry vermouth for a flavor that’s equal parts smoky, herbal, and citrusy. This early-1900s classic still earns its place on modern bar menus for its harmony and simplicity—proof that timeless technique beats trends.

Background

The Affinity Cocktail surfaced during the golden age of bartending, when Scotch-based drinks were rare outside the Rob Roy. Its name celebrates the “affinity” between malt whisky and vermouth—a partnership that highlights complexity without sweetness. Once a hotel-bar staple, it’s now a favorite among mixologists who appreciate subtle depth over showy ingredients.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Scotch – smoky base spirit providing malt warmth.
• Sweet Vermouth – adds botanical sweetness and depth.
• Dry Vermouth – brings crisp dryness to balance the red vermouth.
• Orange Bitters – binds everything with a light citrus snap.

Equipment
Mixing glass, bar spoon, strainer, and a chilled cocktail glass.

Why You’ll Love It — Bittersweet Harmony

The equal-parts structure makes this an easy, foolproof stirred drink. Each sip evolves: Scotch’s smoke gives way to herbal vermouth layers, then a citrus lift from bitters. It’s refined enough for dinner parties yet simple enough for weekday unwinding.

Substitutions & Variations

• Swap Scotch for Irish whiskey for a softer, honeyed profile.
• Add a bar spoon of Benedictine for a richer, spiced twist.
• Serve on the rocks for slower dilution and milder aromatics.

Helpful Tips

• Always chill your mixing glass and glassware.
• Choose a medium-bodied blended Scotch for balance.
• Express a lemon twist over the glass to accentuate citrus oils.
• Avoid shaking—the drink should stay crystal clear.