Scotch is a great liquor. Smoky, deep, rich, delicious. But there aren’t that many Scotch cocktails out there – I suspect that many fans of Scotch whiskey consider it so perfect a spirit that blending it into a cocktail borders on blasphemy. But the great thing about being alive is that you can enjoy your Scotch neat with a dash of water and in cocktails. So I’m setting out to explore the world of Scotch cocktails, starting with our spin on a Scotch sour, the Swanson. Please join me on this journey. – Andrew

Illustration by Shauna Lynn for Oh So Beautiful Paper

The Swanson

2 oz Scotch Whisky
1 oz Lemon Juice
1/2 oz Maple Syrup

Combine and shake well with ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a slice of crispy bacon. Enjoy!

Yes: Scotch, maple syrup, and bacon. Bacon. It’s a little ridiculous, I know. But also fantastic! The woody, smoky notes of the Scotch should dominate, followed by the sweetness of the maple syrup. (Go easy on the maple – it’s enormously sweet and can easily overtake a drink.) The lemon adds just enough tartness to balance out the sugar. And the bacon…well…you know. Bacon!

The name? I’m a huge fan of Parks and Recreation, which is not only hilariously funny but also probably the most unabashedly sweet and good-hearted show on TV. A drink that mixes Scotch with breakfast foods is my small tribute to one of the show’s best characters.

Photo Credits: Nole Garey for Oh So Beautiful Paper