In a search to find a “strong” cocktail, my guests will often ask me what is the strongest drink I can make for them.
In theory, the strongest cocktail out there would have to be the Rusty Nail;
1.5 Oz. Scotch
0.5 Oz. Drambuie
Stir well
Because both ingredients contain 40% Alcohol By Volume, and there is no mix added, this cocktail has an overall strength of 40%ABV.
In order to figure out the strength of a cocktail, you take the ABV%, add them up, and divide by the number of spirits or liqueurs you have.
If you take a 40% vodka, and add 3 liqueurs at 20%, you will get 100/4=25%ABV.
If you add any mix into the equation, it obviously will decrease the overall percentage of the cocktail.
So if you’re in the mood and you want to get your money’s worth, try an old classic. The Rusty Nail.
