Prince Charlie

The story

The Prince Charlie cocktail is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century, named after Prince Charles Edward Stuart, known as Bonnie Prince Charlie. This drink combines the richness of Cognac with the sweetness of Drambuie, reflecting the Scottish heritage associated with the prince. Its enduring appeal lies in the harmonious balance of flavors and its association with classic cocktail culture.

How it tastes

The Prince Charlie offers a complex flavor profile, blending the smooth, rich notes of Cognac with the herbal sweetness of Drambuie and the tartness of fresh lemon juice. It is best served as an aperitif or during social gatherings, particularly in cooler months.

Getting it right

The key to a successful Prince Charlie is in the shaking technique. Ensure you shake the ingredients vigorously with ice to achieve proper dilution and chilling. Fine straining is also essential to create a smooth texture without ice shards.

Variations

• Prince Charlie Royale — Add a splash of Champagne to the original recipe for a sparkling twist.
• Bonnie Prince Charlie — Substitute Scotch whisky for Cognac for a more pronounced whisky flavor.

Substitutions

• Cognac — Use any high-quality brandy if Cognac is unavailable.
• Drambuie — A homemade mix of Scotch whisky, honey, and herbs can serve as a substitute.

Questions

Can I make this cocktail without Drambuie?

While Drambuie adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with another herbal liqueur, though the taste will differ significantly.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Prince Charlie?

Creating a non-alcoholic version can be challenging, but a mix of herbal tea, honey, and lemon juice could mimic some flavors.

What is the best way to serve this cocktail?

The Prince Charlie is best served chilled in a coupe glass, garnished with a twist of lemon zest to enhance its aroma.

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

Updated October 5, 2026