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Cocktails

Balmoral

Served in a Cocktail Glass

Reviewed by , Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic33.9% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
152 cal33.9% ABV1.45 US std2.1g sugar3.0g carbsAbout these numbers

Difficulty

Moderatestirred drink

Why: 4 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon

Best for: Charcuterie, Hard Cheese, Aperitif

Ingredients & Tools

  • 1 1/2 ozScotchBase
  • 1/2 ozSweet VermouthModifier
  • 1/2 ozDry VermouthModifier
  • 2 dashesBittersModifier
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon

How to Make It

StirStrain
  1. In a mixing glass half-filled with ice cubes, combine all of the ingredients.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
  2. Stir well.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
  3. Strain into a cocktail glass.StrainStraining removes ice chips, pulp or solids for a cleaner texture.

Best For

AperitifHappy Hour

Food Pairings

CharcuterieHard CheeseItalian Cuisine

Diet & Lifestyle

Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian

Make it your way

Adjust this drink

Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.Make it simplerTry drinks with three ingredients or fewer.

Swap notes

Base spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.BittersAromatic bitters (like Angostura) add spice, clove and cinnamon warmth. Orange bitters are brighter and more citrus-forward. Peychaud's is lighter and more floral. Swapping between them changes the top-note character — use the same quantity and taste, adjusting by drops.

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Cocktail recipesMocktail alternativesFood pairingsFlavors

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Balmoral?
The Balmoral is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 33.9%. A standard serving contains approximately 152 calories.
What does a Balmoral taste like?
Balmoral has a flavour profile featuring Herbal, Botanical, Citrus, Dry. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
What food goes well with a Balmoral?
Balmoral pairs well with Charcuterie, Hard Cheese, Italian Cuisine. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
How strong is a Balmoral?
The Balmoral has an ABV of approximately 33.9%. That's approximately 1.45 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 152 calories, 2.1g sugar, 3.0g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
When is a Balmoral typically served?
Balmoral is a popular choice for Aperitif, Happy Hour. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
What drinks are similar to a Balmoral?
If you enjoy Balmoral, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
Can I make a Balmoral at home?
Yes. The Balmoral uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Balmoral with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.