You don't need to be a skilled bartender to create impressive mixed drinks with whiskey. With a few simple ingredients and some experimenting, you can impress your guests or simply enjoy a delicious cocktail at home. Here, we'll guide you through some easy mixed drinks to make with whiskey, ensuring you're never left high and dry.
Before we dive into the recipes, let's discuss the types of whiskey that work best in mixed drinks.
Types of Whiskey for Mixed Drinks
Not all whiskeys are created equal, and some blend better with other ingredients than others. Here are three types of whiskey that are versatile contenders for mixed drinks:
- Bourbon: This is a great starting point for beginner whiskey drinkers. It's sweeter and smoother than other whiskeys, making it mix well with a variety of ingredients.
- Rye: Richer and spicier than bourbon, rye whiskey is perfect for cocktails that require a bit more complexity. It pairs well with citrus and spicy flavors.
- Blended whiskey: A mix of different whiskey types, blended whiskeys offer a balance of flavors that can work well in cocktails, especially those with a lot of additional ingredients.
With your whiskey selection in mind, let's explore three simple yet impressive mixed drinks.
Whiskey Sour
The whiskey sour is a classic cocktail that's surprisingly easy to make. With just three ingredients, you can whip up a crowd-pleaser in mere minutes.
- Ingredients: 2 oz whiskey, 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice, 3/4 oz simple syrup.
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until chilled, then strain into a chilled coupe glass or over ice in a double old-fashioned glass.
For an extra touch, consider adding a few dashes of bitters or garnishing with a cherry and orange slice.
Mint Julep
This beloved Kentucky Derby beverage is a refreshing way to enjoy whiskey. While it requires a bit more prep work, the result is a cool, invigorating drink that's perfect for warm weather.
- Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon, 20 fresh mint leaves, 0.5 oz simple syrup.
- Instructions: Lightly muddle mint leaves in a julep cup or short glass. Add whiskey and simple syrup, then fill with crushed ice. Stir until dilute, then top with more crushed ice. Garnish with a mint spring and serve with a straw.
A word of caution: Mint juleps can be deceptively strong, so don't be tempted to overindulge!
Whiskey Cocktails for Special Occasions
If you're looking to impress your guests, consider these two upscale whiskey cocktails that are perfect for special occasions.
Manhattan
This iconic cocktail is rich, complex, and dangerously drinkable. With just three ingredients and no fresh juices, it's a cinch to make.
- Ingredients: 2 oz rye whiskey, 1 oz sweet vermouth, 2 dashes bitters.
- Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir until chilled, then strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry, if desired.
For a twist on the classic, try using brown sugar or pear-brandy-infused sweet vermouth.
Smoked Whiskey Old Fashioned
This elevated take on the classic old fashioned adds a smoky twist that's perfect for fall or winter gatherings.
- Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon, 0.25 oz cherry liqueur, 2 dashes aromatic bitters, smoke from a cedar plank.
- Instructions: Lightly warm a cedar plank and briefly wave it over the glass to lightly smoke the whiskey. Add a large ice cube and set aside. In a separate mixing glass, combine whiskey, cherry liqueur, and bitters. Add a barspoon of simple syrup and finally a small splash of water. Stir until chilled, then strain into the smoked whiskey glass.
Garnish with an expressed orange peel and serve with a cherry, if desired.
Whether you're a whiskey fanatic or just dipping your toes into the world of mixed drinks, these recipes offer something for everyone. So grab your favorite whiskey and get creative – your guests (or your taste buds) will thank you! Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite cocktail along the way.