Suffering Bastard

Whiskey · Collins

Created by Joe Scialom at the Shepheard's Hotel in Cairo in the 1940s, this cocktail became popular with British officers during WWII. Despite its name, it's a refreshing bourbon and gin cocktail with ginger beer and lime.

GlassCollins
GarnishNone
ABV15%
Categorytiki
Flavorspicy, refreshing, historical, ginger

Ingredients

  • Bourbon Whiskey1 oz
  • Gin1 oz
  • Fresh Lime Juice0.5 oz
  • Ginger Beer4 oz
  • Angostura Bitters2 dashes
  • Fresh Mint Leaves1 sprig
  • Lemon Wheel1 piece

Method

  1. Add bourbon, gin, lime juice, and Angostura bitters to collins glass filled with ice
  2. Top with ginger beer
  3. Stir gently
  4. Garnish with fresh mint sprig and lime wheel

Pro Tips

  • 1940s Cairo creation at Shepheard's Hotel — bourbon, gin, lime, ginger beer.
  • The cucumber and mint garnishes are the tip-off for hangover-curing intent.
  • Equal parts bourbon and gin is traditional; leaning bourbon makes it more approachable.