Here are the best classic whiskey cocktails to try, made with bourbon, rye, Irish whiskey, or Scotch. These bold and flavorful drinks offer something for everyone: smooth and sweet or smoky and strong. We’ve chosen our top picks as dedicated bartenders!
Whiskey cocktails are overall crowd-pleasers, thanks to how well whiskey pairs with all kinds of flavors—sweet, sour, or even spicy. This makes it an ideal base for countless iconic and easy recipes, from 1800s classics to modern favorites that still impress today.
Whiskey cocktails suit any occasion or season, from cozy winter warmers to refreshing summer sippers. They shine in bold, spirit-forward drinks and lighter, fresh mixes.
With hundreds of recipes to our name, we’ve narrowed it down to the whiskey-based drinks you can’t miss. Our personal top 10 list of classic whiskey cocktails:
- Old Fashioned
- Whiskey Sour
- Mint Julep
- Manhattan
- Irish Coffee
- Highball
- Rob Roy
- Boulevardier
- Rusty Nail
- Sazerac
Looking for a specific type of whiskey? Check out 26 Rye Whiskey Cocktails – 40 Bourbon Cocktails – 12 Japanese Whiskey Cocktails – 10 Scotch Cocktails
Celebrating a special occasion? 20 Bourbon and Whiskey Cocktails to serve for Christmas
30 Best Whiskey Cocktails & Drinks
Our DrinksWorld experts have curated the best classic whiskey cocktails, complete with step-by-step images and video guides. Click on a cocktail for the full recipe, or visit our Recipes page for more ideas!
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail known for its balance of sweetness, bitterness, and the warmth of whiskey. A fun fact: the Old Fashioned is often considered one of the oldest known cocktails, with references to it dating back to the early 1800s!
Ingredients: Whiskey, Sugar cube, Angostura bitters, Orange twist, ice.
Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a refreshing blend of sour and sweet. It has a tangy lemon flavor combined with the smoothness of whiskey. Did you know? This drink has its national day in the U.S., celebrated on August 25th yearly!
Ingredients: Whiskey, Fresh lemon juice, Sugar, Ice.
Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is a cool, minty cocktail especially popular in the southern United States. It’s famously associated with the Kentucky Derby horse race, where over 120,000 Mint Juleps are served over the two-day event!
Ingredients: Whiskey, Fresh mint leaves, Sugar, Water, Ice.
Manhattan
The Manhattan cocktail combines the depth of whiskey with the sweetness of vermouth. It’s believed to have been created in the late 19th century in New York City, specifically at the Manhattan Club, hence its name.
Ingredients: Whiskey, Sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, Maraschino cherry.
Irish Coffee
Irish Coffee is a delightful mix of coffee, whiskey, sugar, and cream. It was created in the 1940s in Ireland to warm up American tourists on cold, rainy nights. It’s not just a cocktail but also a dessert in a glass!
Ingredients: Whiskey, Hot coffee, Sugar, Heavy cream.
Highball
The Highball is a refreshing cocktail that pairs whiskey with ginger ale or club soda. It’s named after the tall glass it’s served in. This drink became popular in the early 20th century and is a go-to for many whiskey lovers.
Ingredients: Whiskey, Ginger ale or Club soda, Ice.
Rob Roy
Description: The Rob Roy is often called the “Scotch Manhattan.” It was created in 1894 in New York City and named after the Scottish folk hero and the subject of an operetta.
Ingredients: Scotch whisky, Sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, Maraschino cherry.
Rusty Nail
The Rusty Nail is a smooth cocktail with a hint of honey sweetness from the Drambuie, a Scotch-based liqueur. It gained popularity in the 1960s and is known for its golden color.
Ingredients: Scotch whisky, Drambuie.
Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is often described as a whiskey version of the Negroni. It’s a sophisticated blend of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari. The cocktail’s name means “man about town” in French and reflects its classy nature. This whiskey cocktail is often made in a batch to serve a bigger crowd.
Ingredients: Whiskey, Sweet vermouth, Campari.
Sazerac
The Sazerac is a New Orleans classic with a rich history. It’s believed to be one of the oldest American cocktails. The unique rinse of absinthe gives it a distinct flavor.
Ingredients: Rye whiskey, Sugar cube, Peychaud’s bitters, Absinthe, Lemon twist.
Hot Toddy
The Hot Toddy is a warm, comforting drink often enjoyed in colder months. Some believe it has medicinal properties and can help with colds. It’s like a hug in a mug!
Ingredients: Whiskey, Hot water, Honey, Lemon slice, Cloves.
Whiskey Smash
The Whiskey Smash is a citrusy and minty cocktail similar to the Mint Julep but with added lemon. It’s like a whiskey lemonade with a minty twist!
Ingredients: Whiskey, Fresh mint leaves, Lemon wedges, Sugar.
Godfather
The Godfather is a strong and straightforward cocktail. It was popularized in the 1970s, possibly inspired by the famous movie of the same name.
Ingredients: Scotch whisky, Amaretto.
Ward Eight
The Ward Eight is a fruity cocktail with a hint of citrus. It originated in Boston in the early 20th century and was named after a political ward in the city.
Ingredients: Whiskey, Fresh lemon juice, Fresh orange juice, Grenadine.
Blood and Sand
The Blood and Sand is named after a 1922 silent film. It’s a unique cocktail that combines the smokiness of scotch with the sweetness of cherry and orange.
Ingredients: Scotch whisky, Cherry liqueur, Sweet vermouth, Fresh orange juice.
Penicillin
The Penicillin cocktail is a modern classic known for its blend of smoky, sweet, and citrus flavors. It’s often hailed as a remedy for the common cold, much like its namesake.
Ingredients: Scotch whisky, Fresh lemon juice, Honey-ginger syrup, Islay Scotch (for float).
New York Sour
The New York Sour is a delightful twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, topped with a splash of red wine. It’s a beautifully layered drink with a blend of flavors and a striking appearance.
Ingredients: Whiskey, Fresh lemon juice, Sugar, Red wine.
Horse’s Neck
The Horse’s Neck is a refreshing highball with a long spiral lemon twist resembling a horse’s neck. It became popular in the late 19th century and is known for its elegant presentation.
Ingredients: Bourbon or Rye whiskey, Ginger ale, Lemon twist.
Brown Derby
Named after the famous Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood, this cocktail is a sweet and tangy mix that captures the glamour of old Hollywood.
Ingredients: Bourbon, Fresh grapefruit juice, Honey syrup.
Seelbach
The Seelbach is a sparkling cocktail named after the Seelbach Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. Thanks to the champagne, it’s a festive drink with a touch of elegance.
Ingredients: Bourbon, Cointreau, Angostura bitters, Peychaud’s bitters, champagne.
Lynchburg Lemonade
Hailing from Lynchburg, Tennessee, the home of Jack Daniel’s, this cocktail is a refreshing mix of sweet, sour, and a little bit of fizz. Perfect for a hot day!
Ingredients: Whiskey, Triple sec, Fresh lemon juice, Lemon-lime soda.
Gold Rush
The Gold Rush is a modern cocktail reminiscent of the classic Whiskey Sour but with a sweet touch of honey. It’s like liquid gold in a glass!
Ingredients: Bourbon, Fresh lemon juice, Honey syrup.
John Collins
The John Collins is a tall, refreshing drink that’s a sibling to the famous Tom Collins. The main difference? The John uses whiskey instead of gin. It’s a classic that dates back to the 19th century.
Ingredients: Bourbon, Fresh lemon juice, Sugar, Club soda.
Black Hawk
The Black Hawk is a fruity cocktail that pairs the depth of whiskey with the sweetness of blackberries. It’s a delightful mix that’s both vibrant and flavorful.
Ingredients: Bourbon, Sloe gin, Fresh lemon juice.
Stone Fence
The Stone Fence is a simple highball that dates back to colonial America. It’s a rustic blend of apple cider and whiskey, perfect for autumn evenings.
Ingredients: Whiskey, Apple cider.
The importance of Angostura bitters in whiskey cocktails
For anyone making whiskey cocktails, Angostura bitters are a must-have. Their mix of herbs and spices complements the bold flavor of whiskey, adding aromatic complexity. Classics like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan benefit from their unique ability to highlight the whiskey’s character. Angostura bitters are an essential ingredient for whiskey cocktails.
Here are some of the best Angostura brands on the market:
- Angostura Aromatic Bitters: Known since 1824, this classic brand delivers a balanced mix of sweetness, bitterness, and spice. It’s iconic in the Old Fashioned.
- Peychaud’s Bitters: From New Orleans, this bitters is lighter and sweeter with flavors of anise and cherry, perfect for a Sazerac.
- Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6: With a strong orange flavor, this option adds a citrus twist to cocktails like the Whiskey Sour.
- Fee Brothers: This versatile brand offers unique flavors like peach and chocolate. Their peach bitters add a fruity edge to a Whiskey Smash.
- Bitter Truth: A German brand known for robust, high-quality bitters. Their traditional aromatic bitters pair well with sweet vermouth in a Manhattan.
Canned Whiskey Cocktails
Pre-mixed whiskey drinks are great for easy sipping. High West makes a ready-to-drink Old Fashioned that tastes like the real deal. On The Rocks offers different whiskey drinks, like a Manhattan or a Whiskey Sour, right out of the bottle. Cutwater Spirits has a cool Whiskey Highball in a can. But the ones we like are the Bulleit Crafted Cocktails, the brand offers manhattan and old fashioned straight from the bottle.
More Cocktails
Let’s not forget about the wide array of other liquor cocktails. From the crispness of vodka to the boldness of tequila and the sweetness of rum, at DrinksWorld we also explore how these spirits create their own unique cocktail experiences. Learn more about Rum Cocktails, Vodka Cocktails , Cognac Cocktails and Tequila Cocktails.
FAQs
- What’s the top whiskey cocktail people choose? The Old Fashioned is often considered the most popular whiskey cocktail.
- What are some good mixers for whiskey? Standard mixers include ginger ale, club soda, and lemon-lime soda.
- Are there things I shouldn’t mix with whiskey? It’s best to avoid mixing whiskey with overly sweet or creamy beverages, as they can overpower the whiskey’s flavor.
- How can I enjoy whiskey in different ways? Whiskey can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a base in various cocktails.
- Is bourbon different from other whiskies? Yes, bourbon is a type of whiskey made primarily from corn and has specific production regulations.
- Why do some people add ice to their whiskey? Ice can chill and dilute the whiskey, often mellowing out its flavors and making it smoother.
- What’s the reason for adding a water drop to whiskey? A drop of water can open up the whiskey’s aromas and flavors, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
- What does “waterback” mean in the context of drinks? A waterback refers to a drink served with a separate glass of water on the side, which can be sipped alternately.
- How important is the age of the whiskey in a cocktail? Older whiskies can add more depth and character, but the nuances might be lost in some mixed drinks.
- Why are some whiskey cocktails stirred and not shaken? Stirring gently mixes the ingredients without diluting or aerating them too much, preserving the whiskey’s character.
- What glassware is best for whiskey cocktails? Common choices are the Old Fashioned glass, whiskey tumbler, or cocktail coupe, depending on the cocktail.
- Why do some whiskey cocktails have fruit garnishes? Fruit garnishes can add aroma, flavor, and visual appeal to the drink.
Simple Whiskey Cocktails: Whiskey Sour Recipe (and 29 More!)
Check out this basic Whiskey Sour recipe! It blends whiskey, lemon, and syrup for a smooth drink.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Whiskey
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice or cherry - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Shaker
- Measuring Jigger
- Old Fashioned Glass
- Strainer if you don't want ice in your final drink
Instructions
- Prep Glass: Fill your Old Fashioned glass with ice cubes to chill it.
- Add Angostura Bitters: Add 2 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters to the shaker.
- Add Simple Syrup: Measure and pour ½ oz simple syrup into the shaker.
- Add Lemon Juice: Follow with ¾ oz fresh lemon juice.
- Add Whiskey: Pour 2 oz Whiskey into the shaker.
- Prep Shaker: Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- Shake: Give everything a vigorous shake for about 10-15 seconds.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into your Old Fashioned glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
- Garnish: Place a lemon slice or cherry on top for garnish.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Whiskey: If I'm out of traditional Whiskey, I've used bourbon for a sweeter profile or rye for a spicier kick.
- Simple Syrup: I've swapped simple syrup with maple syrup or honey in a pinch. Both give unique flavor spins to the drink.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh is best, but bottled lemon juice can work if fresh lemons aren't available. Just be mindful of the tartness and adjust to taste.
Making a Pitcher of Whiskey Sour:
- Scale: To create a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all ingredients by 8. This means 16 oz of Whiskey, 6 oz of lemon juice, 16 dashes of Angostura Bitters and 4 oz of simple syrup.
- Mix: Combine the Whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a large pitcher. Stir thoroughly.
- Serve: Pour the concoction into ice-filled Old Fashioned glasses, garnish with a lemon slice or cherry, and serve immediately.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Whiskey Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic whiskey or a smoky tea, like Lapsang Souchong, steeped strongly and cooled.
- Proceed As Usual: Use the non-alcoholic whiskey substitute instead of regular Whiskey, and follow the original steps to enjoy a non-alcoholic Whiskey Sour.
Making it Vegan:
Some whiskey sour recipes call for egg white to give a frothy texture. If you're vegan or avoiding raw egg:- Aquafaba Alternative: Use aquafaba, the brine from a can of chickpeas. It acts similarly to egg white when shaken and gives that frothy texture without the use of animal products. Just add about 1 oz to your shaker before shaking.
