About the Morning Glory Fizz cocktail

The Morning Glory Fizz is a historic cocktail that dates back to the late 19th century, first appearing in bartender Harry Johnson’s Bartender’s Manual (1882).

It was originally touted as a “pick-me-up” or hangover cure, meant to refresh and revive.

Built with Scotch whisky, lemon juice, sugar, absinthe, egg white, and soda water, it belongs to the fizz family of cocktails—light, bubbly drinks typically brightened with citrus and softened with effervescence.

While its reputation as a cure-all is best left to history, the Morning Glory Fizz remains a fascinating cocktail that showcases Scotch in a way few others do: bright, frothy, and refreshing.

What Makes the Morning Glory Fizz Cocktail Special

The Morning Glory Fizz is unusual because it uses Scotch whisky in a fizz-style drink.

Scotch typically shows up in strong, stirred classics, but here it’s softened with lemon, sugar, and soda while the egg white gives it a silky texture. 

Absinthe adds a layer of complexity with herbal, anise notes.

The result is a drink that feels both restorative and elegant—lighter than you’d expect for a Scotch cocktail but still full of character.

Spirit Swaps and Food Pairings

• Swaps: A blended Scotch is traditional, but using a lightly smoky single malt can deepen the drink.

  • Bourbon can be substituted for a sweeter version. Skip the absinthe for a gentler profile, or increase it slightly for more boldness.

• Pairings: The Morning Glory Fizz pairs nicely with brunch dishes like eggs, smoked salmon, or pastries, as well as lighter desserts such as fruit tarts.

Closing Thoughts

The Morning Glory Fizz is a fascinating piece of cocktail history—both quirky and delicious.

By blending Scotch with citrus, absinthe, and effervescence, it transforms a robust spirit into something bright and restorative. 

A classic example of how cocktails evolve, it remains a unique choice for adventurous drinkers.