Whether it’s a single malt, a bourbon or an American rye,  whisky is a versatile spirit, offering a rich and sophisticated palette of flavours that can be the basis for many cocktails. Here are five of the most popular:

Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a classic whisky cocktail that dates back to the early 19th century. It’s made by muddling sugar with bitters, adding whisky (usually bourbon or rye), and a twist of citrus peel. This cocktail is known for its simplicity, allowing the whisky’s flavour to shine through. It’s typically served in a short, round glass with a large ice cube to maintain a slow melt, keeping the drink cool without diluting it too much.

Whisky Sour

The Whisky Sour is a balanced blend of whisky, lemon juice, and sugar syrup – often garnished with a cherry and an orange slice – this cocktail offers a perfect harmony of sweet and sour, with the whisky providing a strong alcohol backbone. Some variations include a dash of egg white, which adds a silky texture and a frothy top, enhancing the drink’s visual appeal.

Manhattan

The Manhattan is a sophisticated cocktail made with rye whisky, sweet vermouth, and a few dashes of bitters. It’s stirred with ice, strained into a chilled glass, and garnished with a maraschino cherry. The Manhattan is known for its smooth, slightly sweet and aromatic profile, making it a favourite among whisky enthusiasts. And if you’re ever in Manhattan!

Mint Julep

Traditionally associated with the Kentucky Derby and the southern states the Mint Julep is a refreshing cocktail made with bourbon, fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice. Served in a frosty silver cup, it’s a perfect drink for warm weather, offering a cool, minty experience with the warmth of the bourbon coming through.

Rob Roy

The Rob Roy is a Scotch whisky version of the Manhattan. It’s made with Scotch – preferably a decent single malt – sweet vermouth, and bitters, often garnished with a lemon twist or cherry. The Rob Roy offers a slightly smoky and more robust flavour compared with its rye counterpart but is a great drink for those who love their scotch.