Whether you are sipping pensively on a fine single malt or mixing up a blend into a vivacious cocktail, scotch is undoubtedly the king of classic cocktails. Thanks to the shifting palates of this millennials drinkers, these classic cocktails that date back beyond the 1800s are now back with a bang and trending. And, of course it is just another excuse for us to #lovescotch. So, if it is something lush and with multiple dimensions of flavours you are seeking, a great classic scotch cocktail is the way to go!
However, it is easy for the true essence of a spirit to get lost in a flavourful cocktail, which is why it is essential that you use a liquor that will stand out with in the cocktail, which is why scotch makes for such a distinguished cocktail base.
Let us take a look at some of the fine classic cocktails that can be whipped up using scotch.
The Old Fashioned – a popular cocktail that dates back all the way to the 1800s in New York is made by muddling sugar with bitters, then adding scotch and a twist of citrus rind. This cocktail can at times become too sweet, hence a spirit such as scotch is the perfect base to balance it out.
Whisky Sour – A rich and velvety shaken cocktail from the 1870s made with lemon juice, sugar, and optionally, a dash of egg white and fine scotch or whisky to cut through it all. It is traditionally garnished with an orange wedge and a maraschino cherry.
The Rob Roy – Created in 1894 by a bartender at the Waldorf Astoria in Manhattan, New York City. The drink was named in honour of Scottish folk hero Rob Roy MacGregor. This cousin of Manhattan is made with Sweet Vermouth, scotch and a dash of Angostura Bitters.
Rusty Nail – This harmonious mixture of Drambuie (A sweet whisky based liqueur) and scotch with a twist of lemon is most commonly served over ice in an old fashioned glass. The cocktail in spite of being around since the 1930s gained popularity in the 1960s and was given its name by the chairwoman of the Drambuie Liqueur Company.
Mint Julep – This cocktail lets you see the refreshing side qualities within scotch. It is made with scotch, water, crushed or shaved ice, and fresh mint. This cocktail is not as sweet as most of the others and is a great option, if you are particularly parched.
Johnnie Ginger - One of the best new age cocktails innovated by Johnnie Walker, it is a daring concoction of specifically Johnnie Walker Red Label, ginger ale and fresh lemon wedges. A great drink for every occasion.