As summer arrives, it brings with it the perfect excuse to indulge in refreshing whiskey cocktails. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or new to the world of spirits, these 10 cocktails offer a delightful blend of flavors and are ideal for enjoying under the sun or at gatherings with friends. From timeless classics to innovative twists, there's something here for every palate. Let's delve into the essence of each whiskey used in these recipes and discover the art of crafting the perfect summer drink.
Here is list of whiskey cocktail recipies for summer
1. Old Fashioned Cocktail
Bourbon or rye whiskey forms the heart of the Old Fashioned, a cocktail that pays homage to the earliest known mixed drink. Its rich, smooth character blends seamlessly with the sweetness of a sugar cube and the aromatic touch of Angostura bitters, creating a balanced and timeless sipper.
Image Courtesy: BBC Food
Recipie
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange twist for garnish
- Instructions:
- Muddle the sugar cube and bitters in a rocks glass.
- Add whiskey and ice, stir well.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
2. New York Sour Cocktail
Bourbon whiskey takes center stage in the New York Sour, adding depth and warmth to this vibrant cocktail. Combined with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a float of red wine, it's a refreshing twist on a classic whiskey sour with a visually stunning presentation.
Image Courtesy: Bornapetite
Recipie
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 oz red wine (float)
- Instructions:
- Shake whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice.
- Strain into a glass over fresh ice.
- Gently pour the red wine over the back of a spoon to create a float.
3. Paris Between the Wars Cocktail
Blended Scotch whisky brings a smoky allure to the Paris Between the Wars cocktail. Complemented by Campari's bitter complexity and the zing of fresh lemon juice, this drink transports you to a sophisticated era of indulgence and refinement.
Image Courtesy: food and wines
Recipie
- 1/2 oz blended Scotch whisky
- 3/4 oz Campari
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- Sparkling wine
- Instructions:
- Shake Scotch, Campari, and lemon juice with ice.
- Strain into a flute glass.
- Top with sparkling wine.
4. Classic Mint Julep Cocktail
The Classic Mint Julep is synonymous with summer elegance, featuring bourbon whiskey as its protagonist. Muddled with fresh mint leaves and sweetened with simple syrup, it's a cooling and aromatic concoction perfect for hot days.
Image Courtesy: Spurceat
Recipie
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Fresh mint leaves
- Crushed ice
- Instructions:
- Muddle mint leaves and simple syrup in a julep cup.
- Fill with crushed ice, add whiskey, and stir until frosted.
- Garnish with a mint sprig.
5. Northern Standard Cocktail
Rye whiskey shines in the Northern Standard cocktail, providing a robust backbone to its complex flavors. With hints of Carpano Antica Formula vermouth, Cynar's artichoke bitterness, and a dash of Angostura bitters, this drink is a journey of bold tastes.
Image Courtesy: Food&wine
Recipie
- 1/2 oz rye whiskey
- 3/4 oz Carpano Antica Formula vermouth
- 1/4 oz Cynar
- 1 dash Angostura bitters
- Instructions:
- Stir all ingredients with ice.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
6. Bourbon-Tea Julep Cocktail
Bourbon whiskey takes on a new dimension in the Bourbon-Tea Julep, where it harmonizes with the tannins of black tea syrup and the bright acidity of fresh lemon juice. The result is a harmonious blend of bitter, sweet, and citrusy notes.
Image Courtesy: Food & Wines
Recipie
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 oz black tea syrup
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- Lemon peel for garnish
- Instructions:
- Shake bourbon, tea syrup, and lemon juice with ice.
- Strain into a glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lemon peel.
7. Classic Manhattan Cocktail
Rye whiskey stands tall in the Classic Manhattan, partnering with sweet vermouth and aromatic bitters for a drink that epitomizes sophistication. Garnished with a maraschino cherry, it's a timeless choice for whiskey enthusiasts.
Recipie
- 2 oz rye whiskey
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
- Instructions:
- Stir whiskey, vermouth, and bitters with ice.
- Strain into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with a cherry.
8. Bottled Manhattan Cocktail
The Bottled Manhattan simplifies the mixing process while preserving the essence of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Prepared in advance, it's a convenient yet impressive option for entertaining guests.
Recipie
- 2 oz rye whiskey
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bottle and chill.
- Serve in a glass over ice.
- Garnish with a cherry.
9. Maple Bourbon Smash Cocktail
Bourbon whiskey meets the comforting sweetness of maple syrup in the Maple Bourbon Smash, accentuated by the tartness of fresh lemon juice. Muddled mint leaves add a refreshing herbal note, making it a delightful summer refresher.
Recipie:
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 oz maple syrup
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- Mint leaves for muddling and garnish
- Instructions:
- Muddle mint leaves with maple syrup and lemon juice.
- Add bourbon and ice, then shake and strain.
- Garnish with mint leaves.
10. Paper Plane Cocktail
Bourbon whiskey takes a playful turn in the Paper Plane cocktail, blending harmoniously with Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice. Its vibrant orange hue and balanced flavors make it a standout choice for those seeking a unique whiskey experience.
Recipie:
- 3/4 oz bourbon whiskey
- 3/4 oz Aperol
- 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- Instructions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice.
- Strain into a chilled glass.
- No garnish needed for this vibrant cocktail.