Butterscotch Collins – Scotch & Drambuie Lemon Highball

The Butterscotch Collins is a refreshing Scotch highball that balances smoky whisky with the honeyed, herbal warmth of Drambuie and a crisp hit of lemon. Built on the classic Collins structure, it delivers a lighter, more approachable way to enjoy Scotch without losing its character.

Background

The Collins family dates back to the 19th century, defined by a simple formula of spirit, citrus, sugar, and soda. This variation swaps gin for Scotch and replaces traditional sugar with Drambuie, a Scotch-based liqueur infused with honey and herbs. The result is a modern riff that leans richer while staying bright and drinkable.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Scotch – the smoky, malty backbone of the drink
• Drambuie – adds honeyed sweetness and herbal depth
• Lemon Juice – brings sharp acidity to balance the richness
• Club Soda – lifts the drink with refreshing effervescence

Substitution tip: No Drambuie? Try a mix of Scotch + honey syrup with a dash of herbal liqueur or bitters.

Equipment

• Collins glass
• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger
• Bar spoon

Why This One Stands Out

Smoky Meets Sparkling

This drink walks a tightrope between richness and refreshment. The Scotch brings depth, the Drambuie layers in a subtle butterscotch-like sweetness, and the soda keeps everything light and crisp. It’s a rare case where a whisky cocktail feels genuinely refreshing.

Substitutions & Variations

• Bourbon swap: Creates a sweeter, rounder profile
• Irish whiskey: Lightens the body and softens the smoke
• Grapefruit Collins: Replace part of the lemon with grapefruit juice for a bittersweet edge
• Honey Collins: Add a small amount of honey syrup for a richer texture

Helpful Tips

• Use a lightly peated Scotch to avoid overpowering the drink
• Always use fresh lemon juice for proper balance
• Chill your glass beforehand to keep the carbonation lively
• Batch the base (Scotch, Drambuie, lemon) and top with soda per serving for easy hosting