Cameron’s Kick: A Classic Whiskey Cocktail with a Mysterious Past
An unexpected union of Scotch and Irish spirits, brightened by almond and citrus notes.
Cameron’s Kick is a whiskey cocktail that has quietly enchanted cocktail aficionados for nearly a century. With a unique combination of Scotch whisky and Irish whiskey, balanced by fresh lemon juice and the sweet, nutty complexity of orgeat syrup, it achieves a harmonious blend that surprises even seasoned palates. Revered for its balance and singular twist, Cameron’s Kick is both a testament to the creativity of early 20th-century bartenders and a symbol of the enduring appeal of well-crafted drinks.
The Origin of Cameron’s Kick
The origins of Cameron’s Kick are shrouded in mystery. Most sources trace its first appearance to Harry McElhone’s 1922 bar manual, ABC of Mixing Drinks, and its subsequent inclusion in Harry Craddock’s famed Savoy Cocktail Book. The inventor, the namesake Cameron, and the logic behind the “Kick” remain subjects of speculation. What is clear, however, is that this recipe showcases an unconventional split base of Scotch and Irish whiskey—an unusual pairing at the time that now seems prescient in its pursuit of layered flavors.
- 1920s Publication: First appeared in Harry McElhone’s cocktail manual (1922).
- Mystery Name: No one knows who Cameron was or why the drink is named “Kick.”
- Early Use of Orgeat: The inclusion of orgeat syrup as a sweetener was highly innovative for whiskey cocktails.
Core Ingredients: The Four Pillars
Each element of Cameron’s Kick is essential to its distinct profile. The interplay of the smoky and smooth whiskeys against the bright citrus and almond sweetness makes this drink unique.
| Ingredient | Role in Cocktail |
|---|---|
| Scotch Whisky | Provides smoky, earthy undertones |
| Irish Whiskey | Lends smoothness and subtle grain sweetness |
| Lemon Juice | Brings acidity and brightness |
| Orgeat Syrup | Sweetens and adds almond and floral notes |
The classic recipe is as follows:
- 1 oz Scotch whisky
- 1 oz Irish whiskey
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz orgeat syrup
Recipe: Mixing the Perfect Cameron’s Kick
Bringing Cameron’s Kick to life demands care with proportions and preparation. While variations exist, the method remains straightforward yet crucial for the right texture and flavor integration.
- Combine Scotch, Irish whiskey, lemon juice, and orgeat syrup in a cocktail shaker.
- Shake vigorously with ice (some recipes suggest an initial dry shake for extra froth).
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
- Express the oils from a lemon twist over the drink. Optionally, discard the peel after expressing.
Garnish: Traditionally, Cameron’s Kick is served ungarnished or with the expressed lemon twist, which is then discarded.
Bar Tools Recommended
- Cocktail shaker (Boston or Cobbler style)
- Strainer
- Jigger (for measuring)
- Coupe or cocktail glass
- Citrus press (for fresh lemon juice)
Selecting Spirits: Scotch and Irish Whiskey Choices
The character of Cameron’s Kick can shift dramatically with different whiskeys. Most recipes suggest blended Scotch for its gentle smoke and malt complexity, paired with a light, smooth Irish whiskey.
- Blended Scotch: Famous Grouse, Johnny Walker Red, or Chivas Regal add smoky depth without overpowering the drink.
- Irish Whiskey: Jameson, Bushmills, or Tullamore Dew deliver a complementary smoothness and subtle sweetness.
- Customization: Bolder Irish whiskeys will accentuate spicy notes, while more robust Scotches may lead to a peatier profile.
What others are reading
Bartenders often experiment with ratios and brands, discovering subtle variations in flavor and mouthfeel. Regardless, the balance between the two spirits remains at the heart of what makes Cameron’s Kick a “true original.”
The Magic of Orgeat: Almond Syrup in a Whiskey Cocktail
Orgeat syrup—a sweet concoction of almonds, sugar, and orange flower water—usually appears in tiki and tropical cocktails. Its appearance in a whiskey drink is considered groundbreaking, amplifying both the nutty complexity and the subtle interplay of the malts.
- Flavor Profile: Adds nutty, creamy sweetness and hints of florals.
- Balance: Softens the lemon’s acidity and brings harmony to the two whiskeys.
- Alternatives: High-quality store-bought orgeat works well, though homemade versions impart richer almond flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Glassware and Presentation
Cameron’s Kick is best served chilled in a coupe or cocktail glass. Antique glassware—such as vintage Steuben glasses—lends a nostalgic touch, echoing the drink’s era. The glass should ideally hold 3–4 ounces, encouraging quick enjoyment before the chill dissipates.
- Chilling: Pre-chill glasses for maximum refreshment.
- Quick Serve: Serve immediately after shaking to preserve texture and flavor.
- Lemon Twist: A simple twist expressed over the glass, then discarded, adds a burst of citrus aroma with minimal garnish.
Flavor Profile: What Makes Cameron’s Kick Unique?
Cameron’s Kick stands apart from typical whiskey cocktails. The combination of Scotch and Irish whiskey, bridged by lemon and orgeat, creates a layered taste experience:
- Smooth texture, medium body
- Balanced sweet and sour—without heavy sweetness
- Subtle smokiness kept in check by the smooth Irish whiskey
- Nuttiness from orgeat, mingling with the whiskeys’ malty notes
- Clean, citrusy finish from fresh lemon juice
Many drinkers note that the overall impression veers away from the typical “brown drink” profile, occasionally evoking the aged, subtle qualities of good tequila more than traditional whiskey cocktails.
The Cocktail’s Enigmatic Nature: Why “Kick”?
No definitive explanation exists for the name “Cameron’s Kick.” Some speculate that it references the unexpected lift the orgeat imparts, while others believe the “kick” alludes to the double whiskey base, offering more punch than most. The absence of backstory amplifies the drink’s intrigue and mythos, making it fodder for barroom conversations and further experimentation.
Recipe Variations & Modern Tweaks
Though the original proportions remain widely respected, some contemporary bartenders adjust the ratio of lemon and orgeat to favor a slightly drier or sweeter result. The split base of Scotch and Irish whiskey itself has inspired numerous spins on classic whiskey cocktails.
- Scotch Substitution: Play with single malt or more peated Scotch for smokier effects.
- Lemon Variation: Tweak lemon juice for greater acidity or milder tartness.
- Orgeat Adjustments: Homemade almond syrups yield deeper flavors than commercial bottles.
- Spirit Interchange: Some use bourbon or rye as alternate bases, though this drastically changes the flavor.
Why Cameron’s Kick Deserves a Place in Your Bar Repertoire
Despite its niche appeal, Cameron’s Kick is a cocktail that rewards belief in the unexpected. Blending two traditionally competitive spirits and binding them with orgeat yields a drink greater than the sum of its parts. It’s approachable, balanced, and subtly complex, making it a distinctive offering for whiskey lovers or anyone seeking an alternative to standard whiskey sours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the ideal Scotch and Irish whiskey for Cameron’s Kick?
A: Classic recipes call for blended Scotch and smooth Irish whiskeys. Famous Grouse and Jameson are popular, but any mild, well-balanced examples will work.
Q: Can I substitute orgeat syrup with another sweetener?
A: Orgeat is essential for the cocktail’s nutty character. You could substitute with almond syrup, but the unique flavor and balance may suffer.
Q: What glassware works best for this cocktail?
A: Serve in a chilled coupe or stemless cocktail glass (3–4 oz capacity). Vintage glassware adds a nostalgic touch.
Q: Is this drink strong or suitable for those new to whiskey?
A: Cameron’s Kick is lighter than many whiskey cocktails due to its balance and citrus, making it accessible even for those less familiar with whiskey’s intensity.
Q: Why is Cameron’s Kick considered unique among whiskey cocktails?
A: Its split base of Scotch and Irish whiskey, combined with lemon and orgeat, creates a flavor profile that balances smoke, sweetness, and sour—a harmony rarely found in classic cocktails.
Conclusion: Savoring Tradition With a Twist
Cameron’s Kick is more than just an intriguing mix of ingredients; it’s a classic that redefines how whiskeys blend with fresh and sweet elements. Its elusive backstory and unique recipe invite both curiosity and admiration, making each sip an experience rich in history and flavor. For those seeking to expand their cocktail horizons, Cameron’s Kick is a must—celebrated not for notoriety, but for enduring taste and clever composition.
References
- https://www.theeducatedbarfly.com/camerons-kick/
- https://putneyfarm.com/2012/03/30/weekly-cocktail-9-camerons-kick/
- https://robertsimonson.substack.com/p/recipes-camerons-kick-three-ways
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9x8D_BKyW8
- https://www.whiskeytangoglobetrot.com/blog/3-easy-irish-whiskey-cocktail-recipes
- https://www.cocktailexplorer.co/cocktails/camerons-kick/anders-erickson/
- https://imbibemagazine.com/recipe/camerons-kick-cocktail/
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