Best Whisky Cocktails for every occasion

1. Old Fashioned

Best for: Nostalgia and quiet contemplation

Preparing an Old Fashioned will connect you with generations of cocktail enthusiasts who’ve enjoyed this drink since the 1800s. The timeless combination of whisky, sugar, and Angostura bitters is warm and comforting, while adding a refined elegance to any occasion. Best savoured slowly, serve an Old Fashioned during intimate gatherings when you want the conversation to keep flowing. 

“For an Old Fashioned, I personally prefer a rye-forward whisky. Rye whisky lends a hearty, spicy element to the cocktail, adding depth of flavour and complexity. Classically, this cocktail would be made with bourbon, due to its richer, sweeter nature, which is also a fine choice. You can also experiment with the type of sugar you use. Demerara sugar provides richer, earthier notes, whereas honey syrup adds a layer of floral freshness. The possibilities are endless within this one cocktail.” 

2. Whisky Sour

Best for: Light-hearted celebrations 

The Whiskey Sour is popular with whisky lovers all over the world. But in the United States, the drink has reached legendary status, with National Whiskey Sour Day observed annually on August 25th. A relatively easy cocktail, typical recipes call for whiskey (or whisky if its Scotch) sugar, lemon juice, and optional egg whites. This light and frothy drink adds joy to any celebration, without much fuss. 

“The Whisky Sour cocktail is a great vehicle for flavour manipulation. The base is strong and it’s easy to swap out one ingredient for another. A simple way to adapt flavour is to change the syrup, perhaps try using something like peach or elderflower syrup. You could also add in herbs or fruits, to further personalise the drink. Next time, try adding sage leaves or strawberries to freshen up your Whiskey Sour.” 

3. Whisky Highball

Best for: Winding down after a long day 

When you don’t have the energy to make anything complicated, a Whisky Highball is the way to go. Just fill a tall glass with ice, add your favourite whisky, and top with soda water. You’ll notice that the bubbles in the soda bring out nuances of flavour. Whisky Highballs can vary greatly, depending on the type of whisky you use – from the smooth simplicity of a single-malt Scotch to something sweeter like Bourbon – you’ll find that there’s lots to discover in this classic cocktail simply by switching sodas.  

4. Manhattan

Best for: A sophisticated, classic evening  

Manhattans are known for their complex balance of flavours, combining whisky, sweet vermouth, bitters, and a fruity garnish. With a rich, full-bodied, and slightly sweet taste (plus a hint of spice), a classic Manhattan is an aromatic and sophisticated whisky cocktail, best served in an upscale setting reminiscent of its origins – think Mad Men meets The Great Gatsby – where presentation means business.  

 “My number one tip for elevating a drink as classical as this is to use chilled glassware. Storing some glassware in your freezer is the ideal way to ensure you can enjoy this cocktail for as long as possible, in its best condition. The Manhattan has also seen an array of garnishes from the cherry, to an orange peel, and even ice cream at one point. Try different garnishes to see which you prefer, and find your ideal Manhattan cocktail.” 

5. Hot Toddy

Best for: Cosying up on a cold winter’s night 

Typically made by combining hot water, your choice of whisky, honey and lemon juice, a Hot Toddy is one of the most popular whisky cocktails and a cosy way to get warm from the inside out. There are almost countless approaches to the drink, so consider the standard recipe only a guideline. You might try using hot tea instead of water, or swapping the honey for maple syrup. Spices like cinnamon, cloves and star anise can also add an extra festive touch to this warming cocktail. 

“To make this cocktail even more comforting, use your favourite mug, or even dress it up with a cute tea cosy to share with your friends and family.” 

6. Irish Coffee

Best for: An indulgent after-dinner treat  

An Irish Coffee is a great way to top off a meal any time of the year. A simple blend of coffee, Irish whiskey, brown sugar and a touch of lightly whipped cream, it’s the quality of your ingredients that will make it shine. For extra richness, consider adding a splash of Baileys Irish Cream.  

 “The best way to ‘whip’ your cream for an Irish coffee is to use a cocktail tin with a teaspoon inside and shake away. You’ll have whipped cream in no time (but be careful not to overdo it). If you don’t have a cocktail tin, you can also use a protein shaker with the metal ball inside, for a similar effect. When it comes to layering, gently pour the cream on the back of a large spoon, for the desired layering effect on top of the cocktail. And make sure to sweeten up your coffee so that it can stand up against the whisky inside!”  

7. Mint Julep

Best for: Pleasing a crowd  

The Mint Julep is synonymous with the American South and the Kentucky Derby. Did you know that more than 120,000 Mint Juleps are served annually during the races at Churchill Downs? Not surprising, given how delightfully refreshing they are. Mint Juleps are typically made by pouring bourbon over muddled fresh mint leaves, simple syrup and crushed ice. The combination of the bourbon’s complexity, the mint’s freshness, and the sweet syrup creates a well-balanced flavour. 

“This cocktail can really benefit from a few dashes of rosewater inside the serve. Rosewater is a highly aromatic liquid that, when used in small amounts, can add amazing flavour and aroma to your cocktail.” 

8. Boulevardier 

Best for: A deeper, warmer take on a Negroni 

The Boulevardier, a spin on a Negroni with rye whisky instead of gin, is a rich and exciting whisky cocktail. The whisky provides a warm, oaky, and slightly spicy character, while the herbal and citrus notes from the Campari and vermouth add complexity to the drink. The result is a well-balanced, sophisticated cocktail with a unique and memorable flavour profile. 

9. Rusty Nail 

Best for:  A simple serve with complex flavours 

Simple and bold, a Rusty Nail is made with just two ingredients: Scotch whisky and Drambuie, a sweet herbal liqueur. Typically served in a rocks glass over ice, the Rusty Nail is known for its strong flavours. Use a high-quality Scotch with a smoky, peaty, robust character, and the Drambuie will add complexity. Changing the flavour profile is as simple as switching between a blended whisky and your favourite single malt. 

10. Vieux Carré 

Best for: Impressing next-level cocktail enthusiasts  

The Vieux Carré first appeared in the 1937 edition of “Famous New Orleans Drinks and How to Mix ‘Em.” With a cocktail renaissance in recent years, this complex drink is back. Not for beginners, the Vieux Carré is made with carefully measured portions of rye whisky, cognac, sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, and two styles of bitters. The reward? An ideal balance of multi-dimensional flavour that sets it apart from any other cocktail. 

“A complex drink for the seasoned whisky lover. This cocktail benefits from the 50/50 split spirit base of rye and cognac. By doing this, you give the cocktail more complexity and flavour for it to truly be enjoyed. It isn’t the first cocktail I would introduce someone into the world of whisky with, but it is certainly something to have in your book for those who want a new experience.”