The St. Andrews is an underrated long drink that combines Blended Scotch Whisky with the sweetness of Amaretto and the freshness of pineapple and orange. The blend of smoky whisky and fruity juices creates a balanced, easy-to-drink beverage that is neither too bitter nor too sweet. Perfect for anyone who wants to experience whisky in a different way – without sacrificing the familiar complexity.
And here’s what you need for the St. Andrews
5 cl Blended Scotch Whisky
1 cl Amaretto
6 cl pineapple juice (freshly pressed or high-quality bottled)
6 cl orange juice (freshly pressed, not from concentrate)
1 cl lemon juice (fresh, not from a bottle)
Garnish: 1 lemon slice (thin, seedless), 1 cocktail cherry (not candied)
Key points
The trick lies in the Amaretto: it should not be too dominant but strong enough to complement the whisky. Use an Amaretto with a clear almond note, but without artificial sweetness. If the drink tastes too bitter, you can reduce the lemon juice by 0.25 cl – but never omit it completely, as this would disrupt the balance. Important: The juices must be fresh. Orange juice from concentrate makes the drink flat, canned pineapple juice often tastes metallic. If you can’t get fresh pineapple juice, use a high-quality direct juice without added sugar.
Variations
- St. Andrews Tropical — Replace 3 cl orange juice with 3 cl passionfruit juice (fresh or pure) and garnish with half a passionfruit slice. The tangy kick of the passionfruit highlights the smoky note of the whisky.
- St. Andrews Smoky — Add 0.5 cl Islay Single Malt Whisky (e.g., a smoky Scotch) in addition to the Blended Scotch. Reduce the pineapple juice by 0.5 cl to maintain balance. Garnish with a smoked orange slice (lightly smoke over beechwood).
Frequently asked questions
Can I make the St. Andrews without Amaretto?
Yes, but it will lack the almond depth. Replace the Amaretto with 0.5 cl orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau) and 0.5 cl almond syrup. The drink will be fruitier but less complex.
Why does my St. Andrews taste watery?
Probably because the ice is too small or has been in the shaker too long. Use large ice cubes (at least 3 cm edge length) and shake only until the shaker is cold – not longer. Shaking for too long dilutes the drink unnecessarily.
Can I prepare the drink in advance?
No. The juices oxidise quickly, and the whisky loses its aromas. Always mix the St. Andrews fresh and serve it immediately. If you’re expecting guests, prepare the ingredients in advance and mix only when serving.
