Affinity

The story

The Affinity cocktail is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, with its first known mention in the 1907 book 'The World's Drinks and How to Mix Them' by William Boothby. The drink combines Scotch whisky with both sweet and dry vermouth, reflecting the era's trend of blending spirits. Its unique balance of flavors has contributed to its enduring popularity among cocktail enthusiasts.

How it tastes

The Affinity offers a complex flavor profile, featuring the smoky notes of Scotch balanced by the sweetness of vermouth and a hint of bitterness from the orange bitters. It is best served as an aperitif or during cocktail hour.

Getting it right

The key to a successful Affinity lies in the stirring technique. Properly chilling and diluting the mixture without over-aerating is crucial. Using high-quality Scotch and vermouths will also significantly enhance the drink's overall flavor.

Variations

• Affinity Royale — Substitutes sparkling wine for one of the vermouths, adding a bubbly twist.
• Smoky Affinity — Uses a heavily peated Scotch for a more pronounced smoky flavor.

Substitutions

• Blended Scotch — If single malt Scotch is unavailable, a blended Scotch can be used as a substitute.
• Dry Vermouth — You can replace dry vermouth with Lillet Blanc for a different herbal note.

Questions

Can I use bourbon instead of Scotch?

Yes, using bourbon will create a sweeter and richer variation of the Affinity, but it will alter the drink's traditional flavor profile.

What kind of bitters should I use?

Orange bitters are recommended for the Affinity, but you can experiment with other types like aromatic bitters for a different taste.

Is the Affinity served straight or on the rocks?

The Affinity is served straight up in a cocktail glass, not on the rocks, to maintain its intended flavor and temperature.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026