As the temperatures rise and the summer sun graces us with its warmth once again, it's time to elevate your cocktail game and dive into the world of refreshing whisky concoctions. While whisky may not be the first spirit that comes to mind when you think of summertime drinks, you'd be pleasantly surprised by the delightful and invigorating whisky cocktails that await. From classic favourites to innovative twists, these drinks are the perfect companions for sipping and savouring on those long summer days and balmy evenings. So, grab your favourite glass, kick back, and allow us to introduce you to a tantalising array of summer whisky cocktails that will make your taste buds dance and your spirits soar. Get ready to quench your thirst and unlock a whole new dimension of summertime sipping pleasure!
1. WHISKY SOUR (vegan friendly)
A tart beverage made with whisky, lemon juice and simple syrup (sugar and water) served over ice or straight up in a cocktail glass - perfect for those who prefer something tangy yet still smooth and delicious!
Take 60ml of your favourite whisky and pour it into a shaker filled with crushed ice
Add 30ml of freshly-squeezed lemon juice and 30ml of simple syrup to the shaker
Once everything is in the shaker, shake vigorously until the drink is cold and let the ice do its work to infuse all the flavours together nicely
Strain it into an ice-filled rocks glass or an old-fashioned glass for a classic presentation
Garnish with a maraschino cherry or twist of lemon peel to really bring this cocktail to life...
Enjoy!
2. OLD FASHIONED
A classic mix of whisky, bitters and sugar served over ice will give your barbecues an extra dose of sophistication. All you need is whisky, Angostura bitters, sugar, orange peel and a maraschino cherry, to make this classic cocktail!
First, take 60ml of your favourite whisky and pour it into an old-fashioned glass over ice
Add 4 dashes of Angostura bitters and 1 teaspoon of sugar
Use a spoon to stir (muddle) the ingredients until the sugar has dissolved
Run an orange peel around the rim of the glass, squeeze over the drink and drop it in, top with a maraschino cherry and relax!
3. WHISKY MINT TULIP
A classic summer cocktail made with whisky, mint, simple syrup and crushed ice. It's bound to be an instant hit with guests that are looking for something special, and it is easy to make and very refreshing!
Gather together 60ml of your favourite whisky, 4 to 5 fresh mint leaves, 30ml of simple syrup and 2 teaspoons of water
Put them all in a shaker with some ice and shake for about 20 seconds until the mixture is chilled
Next, add more crushed ice into a julep cup or an old-fashioned glass
Strain the contents from the shaker over the crushed ice until it fills the glass
Garnish with a couple sprigs of fresh mint, serve and savour the flavours!
4. WHISKY HIGHBALL
A light refreshment featuring whisky topped off with soda water (or mixer of choice) and garnished with citrus fruits like lemons or oranges - perfect for cooling down on hot days this summer! Making a Whisky Highball is easy and refreshing!
Take 60ml of your favourite whisky and pour it into a highball glass over some ice cubes
Then add 120-180ml of chilled soda water and stir the ingredients together until combined
Garnish with a lemon slice, give it one more gentle stir, and chill!
5. SOUTHSIDE FIZZ
A refreshing combination of whisky, lime juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, soda water and mint leaves. Perfect for those who like their drinks with a zing of citrus flavour!
First, take 60ml of your favourite whisky and pour it into a shaker with some crushed ice.
Add in 5 fresh mint leaves, 30ml of freshly-squeezed lime juice, lemon juice and 10ml of sugar syrup
Shake vigorously until the drink is nice and chilled
Strain the contents from the shaker into an ice-filled highball glass
Then add 90-120ml of club soda to top it off
Garnish with a couple sprigs of fresh mint and take delight in the citrus zing!
6. KENTUCKY MULE
An easy to make summer cocktail that pairs bourbon with ginger beer and a squeeze of fresh lemon - ideal for the adventurous spirit who appreciates the versatility of whiskey based drinks!
Making a Kentucky Mule is easy and delicious!
Take 60ml of your favourite bourbon and pour it into a mule mug over some ice
Then add 30ml of freshly-squeezed lime juice and 120-180ml of premium ginger beer
Stir the ingredients together until combined
Garnish with a lime wedge and bask in the sun!
7. IRISH MULE
Combines Irish whiskey, ginger beer and lime for a sweet and spicy drink that will keep your guests sipping all night long.
First, take 60ml of your favourite Irish whiskey and pour it into a highball glass over ice
Add 120-180ml of chilled ginger beer and stir the ingredients together until combined
Garnish with a lime wedge, give it one more gentle stir, and Enjoy!
8. BOULEVARDIER
Combines Rye Whiskey or Bourbon with Sweet Vermouth and Campari for a smooth sipping experience without any bitterness from the Campari at all - great for those who prefer sweeter drinks!
Fill a mixing glass with ice and pour in 60ml of your favourite Rye/Bourbon, 30ml of Sweet Vermouth and 30ml Campari
Next, stir in the glass to avoid excessive dilution
Strain in to glass of choice
Garnish with a cherry and savour the experience
9. THE PENICILLIN
An interesting blend of whisky, fresh lemon juice, honey syrup and smoky whisky that will have everyone talking about its unique flavour profile! Making it is straight forward but creates a wonderfully complex cocktail! All you need is Scotch whisky, honey ginger syrup, lemon juice and a peated whisky.
Take 60ml of your favourite Whisky and pour it into a shaker over some ice cubes
Then add 20ml of honey ginger syrup and 15ml of fresh lemon juice
Give the ingredients a good shake to combine them
Strain the cocktail into an old-fashioned glass with one large cube of ice and float 10ml of peated whisky on top
Give it one final stir and revel in its complexity!
10. MANHATTAN
This timeless drink is crafted from Rye Whiskey, Sweet Vermouth and Angostura Bitters for an old-fashioned flavour profile in a classic appearance - it's sure to be popular among your friends this summer!
Pour 60ml of your favourite Rye or Bourbon into a mixing glass over several ice cubes
Then add 30ml of sweet vermouth, 3 to 4 dashes of bitters and stir the ingredients together until combined
Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass and garnish with an orange peel or maraschino cherry
Give it one final stir and cherish these moments!
As the sun sets on our journey through the world of summer whisky cocktails, we hope you're feeling inspired and ready to embark on your own mixology adventures.
Whether you're hosting a barbecue, lounging by the poolside, or simply seeking a moment of relaxation, let these delicious whisky cocktails be your go-to companions. With their vibrant flavours, cooling qualities, and the unique character of your chosen whisky, they are the epitome of summer indulgence.
Remember to experiment, customise, and make these recipes your own by adding a personal twist. Explore different whisky varieties from the new world, play with garnishes, and adjust the proportions to suit your taste. The beauty of cocktail creation lies in its endless possibilities, and the summer season provides the perfect backdrop to let your creativity flow... Cheers!