A new generation is embracing whiskey and the advent of mixology is taking whiskey cocktails to a new level. If you’re planning a party, why not take advantage of whiskey’s resurgence in popularity and serve one of these delicious whiskey drinks your guests will love?
Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan cocktail is a classic recipe that everyone should master. This cocktail is traditionally made with rye whiskey but bourbon or Canadian whiskey can also be used. This dates back to a shortage of quality rye whiskey in the 1900s that led people to use Canadian whiskey instead. Then, the popularity of bourbon in the later part of the century led bourbon becoming a popular substitute as well. To make a Manhattan, simply combine two parts rye or bourbon with one part sweet vermouth and a dash of bitters. Stir with ice and pour into a chilled glass. Garnish with cherries and watch your guests be impressed with your whiskey cocktails!
Whiskey Sour
A Whiskey Sour is a versatile drink that even those who don’t regularly prefer whiskey are sure to love. It’s also quite easy to make! Simply combine 2 ounces of bourbon, 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice, and 3/4 ounce of simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake until very cold, about twenty seconds. Then strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry if you like then serve up these whiskey drinks at your next party!
John Collins
Like it’s sibling the Tom Collins (which is made with gin) the John Collins is one of the most refreshing and easy to drink whiskey cocktails. It’s made very similarly to the Whiskey Sour with citrus and simple syrup. The John Collins, however, adds club soda to the mix. To create this cocktail pour 1 1/2 ounces whiskey, 1-ounce lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce simple syrup over ice in a Collins glass. Stir well and top off with club soda. Garnish with a lemon slice and cherry.
Mint Julep
Offer your guests a taste of the South when you serve Mint Juleps at your next party. These whiskey drinks make even the most novice mixologist look like a seasoned pro. To create this class whiskey cocktail place ten mint leaves in the bottom of an Old Fashioned glass or silver mint julep cup. Top with 1 1/2 teaspoons of superfine sugar. Muddle the sugar and mint together until the leaves begin to break down. Fill the glass three-quarters of the way full with crushed ice and add 2 1/2 ounces of Kentucky bourbon. Top with seltzer water and garnish with a sprig of mint. Your guests will no doubt be impressed with your cocktail skills!
Algonquin Cocktail
The Algonquin cocktail is whiskey’s answer to the martini. It’s a fruity mixture that has a surprisingly complex taste for a three-ingredient cocktail. These whiskey cocktails were named after the famous Algonquin Hotel in New York City, which dates back to 1902. Whether or not the drink was invented before or after the Prohibition remains in debate, regardless it’s a classic! To make this tropical concoction, combine 1 1/2 ounces rye whiskey with 3/4 ounce dry vermouth and 3/4 ounce pineapple juice with ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake until very cold and strain into a chilled martini glass. Serve with a citrus twist if desired.
Highball
Simplicity rules when you serve your guests a whiskey highball. This is a simple yet appetizing two ingredient classic cocktail. Serve this drink in its namesake tall glass. To make a highball, combine 2 ounces of whiskey with 6 ounces of ginger ale. Any whiskey works in this cocktail and allows you to vary the resulting flavor quite a bit. If you use Irish whiskey the drink is called an Irish buck, a fun fact your party guests will enjoy.
No matter which of these delicious whiskey cocktails you serve at your next party, your guests will be delighted. For more cocktail ideas, explore these Signature Holiday Cocktail Recipes. Then stock your bar for whiskey drinks your party guests will love!
