Romantic Vodka Drambuie Cocktail – Lover’s Nocturne
With vodka, Drambuie, and bitters in perfect harmony, this cocktail delivers a bittersweet elegance ideal for date nights or intimate gatherings.

Smooth vodka, honeyed Drambuie, and a dash of bitters combine in this refined cocktail that feels tailor-made for intimate nights. Balanced between sweetness and spice, the Lover’s Nocturne is a drink that lingers as much as the evening it’s poured for.
Background
The recipe draws on classic late-night cocktails where whisky liqueurs add depth to a clean spirit base. Drambuie, long associated with after-dinner sipping, lends a honeyed warmth that makes this drink naturally suited as a nightcap.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Vodka – neutral backbone that lets the liqueur’s spice shine.
- Drambuie – adds honey sweetness and herbal depth.
- Bitters – ties flavors together with a touch of sharpness.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Cocktail glass
- Jigger
- Strainer
Bittersweet Elegance
What makes this cocktail stand out is its restrained balance. Drambuie brings enough sweetness to soften the vodka’s edge, while bitters prevent it from becoming cloying. The result is silky, slightly spiced, and endlessly drinkable.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap in orange bitters for a citrus lift.
- Use Glayva or another whisky liqueur if Drambuie isn’t on hand.
- Try a flavored vodka like vanilla for a sweeter twist.
Helpful Tips
- Chill your glassware before straining for a crisper serve.
- Garnish with a lemon twist for aroma.
- Works well as a small-batch cocktail: scale up proportions and stir in a mixing glass.
Lover's Nocturne Recipe
Type of Glass
Cocktail Glass
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz. Drambuie®
- 1 dash
Directions
- Pour the vodka, Drambuie, and bitters into a cocktail shaker filled with ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
A nightcap that lingers long after the last sip.