6 Best Whisky-Based Cocktails

If you love whisky and you love a good cocktail, why not combine the two?

Whisky-based cocktails are a favourite for whisky lovers. From timeless classics to modern twists, these whisky-based cocktails will elevate your drinking experience and impress your guests.

Today, Whisky Tasting Company will dive into the best whisky concoctions you can easily whip up at home or savour at your favourite bar. 

1. Classic Whisky Sour

The whisky sour is a classic cocktail beloved for its strong, sour, and sweet taste. It consists of whisky, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup, creating a light and refreshing drink. 

Whisky sour dates back to the 1860s, when it became popular in bars and saloons in America. It’s remained a staple ever since. Follow the steps below to create your own:

• Combine ingredients: Fill a cocktail shaker with whisky, simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and egg white (optional).
• Dry shake: Shake briskly for approximately 15 seconds without using any ice. This contributes to the egg white's emulsification, giving it a creamy, smooth texture.
• Shake with ice: Pour ice into the shaker and shake once more, giving it a good 15 seconds to chill.
• Strain and serve: Pour the mixture through a strainer into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice, or you can pour it straight into a chilled coupe glass.
• Garnish: For the ultimate touch, place a cherry or a twist of lemon on top.

2. Old Fashioned

Due to its popularity, you may already be accustomed to the old-fashioned. This is often regarded as the grandfather of all cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century. 

This cocktail combines whisky, sugar, bitters, and citrus, resulting in a sophisticated taste. Whisky is the predominant flavour, perfect for those who love the bitter taste. 

• Muddle the sugar: Put one sugar cube into an old-fashioned glass. Stir in a couple of dashes of water and bitters. Mash it together until the sugar dissolves, then stir the syrup in.
• Add the whisky: Pour the whisky over the muddled sugar mix. 
• Add ice: Fill the glass with ice. This is essential for a slower dilution, keeping your drink chilled without adding too much water.
• Mix and garnish: Gently mix to blend and cool the beverage. After spreading the oils across the glass, add an orange twist as a garnish and place it inside. If desired, add a maraschino cherry for a little sweetness.

3. Manhattan

The Manhattan offers a wonderful balance of sweet and herbal aromas with its smooth blend of whisky, sweet vermouth, and bitters. 

This complex cocktail is ideal for those who love a powerful and refined drink. It was created in the late 19th century and became one of the most iconic cocktails of the gilded age.

• Mix the ingredients: Fill the mixing glass with ice and add the whisky, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
• Stir and chill: Stir thoroughly for 20 to 30 seconds. This ensures the drink remains clear and smooth.
• Strain and serve: Pour the cocktail into a chilled coupe or martini glass and serve.
• Garnish: Add a twist of orange peel for a burst of citrus aroma or a Luxardo maraschino cherry for a hint of sweetness.

4. Rob Roy

This cocktail, named for the well-known Scottish folk hero and bandit Rob Roy MacGregor, is an ode to the robust and nuanced aromas of Scotch whisky. 

This brings a Scottish twist to the Manhatten, providing a distinctively smoky, peaty, and robust character. This drink can range from light and smooth to bold and intense, making it a favourite among whisky enthusiasts.

• Mix the ingredients: Fill the mixing glass with ice and add the Scotch whisky, sweet vermouth, and bitters.

• Stir and chill: Stir vigorously for 20-30 seconds until the drink is well chilled. 

• Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.

• Garnish: Add a twist of lemon peel for a burst of citrussy freshness or a Luxardo maraschino cherry for a traditional touch.

5. Hot Toddy

This cocktail is perfect for a cold winter day relaxing by the fireplace or when you’re feeling under the weather. 

This features a mix of hot water, whisky, honey, lemon, and spices, creating a spicy and rich drink. 

• Warm the mug: Fill a mug with hot water to bring it to room temperature. Discard the water after a minute of heating.

• Mix the ingredients: Pour the whisky, honey, and lemon juice into the heated mug. Thoroughly stir to dissolve the honey.

• Add the spices and hot water: Pour the boiling water into the mug and mix. For an aromatic touch, add cloves and a cinnamon stick.

• Garnish and serve: Add a wheel or twist of lemon as a garnish. For extra flavour, add a star anise or a couple of additional spices of your choosing.

6. Whisky Highball

The Whisky Highball is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail made with whisky and a carbonated mixer, usually soda water. 

This is perfect for those who love the nuance of whisky but prefer more of a lighter, refreshing drink. This is a popular cocktail in Japan, and its low-alcohol content is perfect for more laid-back occasions. 

• Chill the glass: To get a tall Highball glass icy, chill it in the freezer for a few minutes or fill it with ice water.

• Add ice and whisky: Place big ice cubes in the chilled glass. Then, pour the whisky over the ice.

• Add soda water: To keep the glass's carbonation intact, slowly pour the cold soda water down the edge.

• Stir and garnish: Gently whisk the beverage once or twice to mix it without sacrificing too much of its fizz. Add a lemon wedge or twist as a garnish, then sip it right away while it's cold and frothy.

Ready to Craft Your Own Whisky Cocktails?

At Whisky Tasting Company, we offer a wide selection of premium whiskies that are perfect for mixing, sipping, or gifting.

Browse our collection of whisky gifts to find the ideal present for your loved one. Plus, they can use our whiskies to create their very own delicious cocktails!