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Cocktails

Highland Fling Cocktail

Served in a Cocktail Glass

Reviewed by , Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic30.1% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
152 cal30.1% ABV1.33 US std2.2g sugar3.2g carbsAbout these numbers

Difficulty

Moderatestirred drink

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

Best for: Charcuterie, Hard Cheese, Aperitif

Ingredients & Tools

BaseModifierBittersGarnish
  • 1 1/2 ozScotchBase
  • 3/4 ozSweet VermouthModifier
  • 2 dashesOrange BittersBitters
  • 1OliveGarnish
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon

How to Make It

StirGarnish
  1. Stir all ingredients (except olive) with ice and strain into a cocktail glass.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
  2. Add the olive and serve.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.

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.CitrusLemon is bright and sharp; lime is more floral and slightly sweeter; orange is softer and rounder; grapefruit adds bitter edge. They are not interchangeable — each changes the acidity and aroma of the drink. If you swap, adjust the sweetener to rebalance.BittersOrange bitters add citrus brightness and aromatic lift. Angostura is spicier and warmer — use a dash less if you swap. Peychaud's is the lightest option; it keeps the drink balanced without adding too much weight.
GarnishThe olive adds a savoury, briny note that defines the drink's finish. A cocktail onion makes it a Gibson — sharper and more pungent. A lemon twist adds brightness without the salt. Leave the garnish out entirely and the drink tastes noticeably rounder and softer.

Explore next

Cocktail recipesMocktail alternativesFood pairingsFlavors

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Highland Fling Cocktail?
The Highland Fling Cocktail is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 30.1%. A standard serving contains approximately 152 calories.
What does a Highland Fling Cocktail taste like?
Highland Fling Cocktail has a flavour profile featuring Bitter, Orange, Citrus, Herbal. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
What food goes well with a Highland Fling Cocktail?
Highland Fling Cocktail 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 Highland Fling Cocktail?
The Highland Fling Cocktail has an ABV of approximately 30.1%. That's approximately 1.33 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 152 calories, 2.2g sugar, 3.2g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
When is a Highland Fling Cocktail typically served?
Highland Fling Cocktail 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 Highland Fling Cocktail?
If you enjoy Highland Fling Cocktail, 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 Highland Fling Cocktail at home?
Yes. The Highland Fling Cocktail 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 Highland Fling Cocktail 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.