The Best Whiskey Cocktails To Try This Summer

It’s officially summer, meaning it’s time to whip out the cocktails. If you love whiskey, you’re in luck because there are so many creative whiskey cocktails you can mix up for your next summer gathering. We’ll give you the rundown on some of the best whiskey cocktails to keep your summer nights refreshing.

We’ve got something for every palate, so whether you like your cocktails sweet, spicy, or strong, we’ve got the perfect recipe. Ready to get mixing? Let’s look at the best whiskey cocktails to try this summer.

Types of Whiskey and Their Characteristics

Whiskey is a spirit made from grain mash and distilled malts, and it can be produced in many countries worldwide. The four main whiskey categories are Scotch, Irish whiskey, bourbon, and rye whiskey. 

Scotch is a type of whiskey usually made with malted barley and then aged in oak barrels for at least three years. It typically has a smoky flavor with hints of fruit and wood. Scotch can also have a range of other flavors.

Irish whiskey is another type of whiskey made primarily from barley. It is usually double-distilled to create a smooth flavor profile. It has a sweet aroma with caramel, honey, vanilla, and toffee notes.

Bourbon is an American style of whiskey made from at least 51% corn mash and then aged in charred oak barrels for at least two years. Bourbon has a sweet flavor with notes of caramel, toasted oak, and vanilla. Bourbon aged longer will have a more complex flavor.

Rye whiskey is an American style made from at least 51% rye mash and then aged in charred oak barrels for at least two years. Rye whiskey typically has a spicy flavor profile with caramel, oak, cinnamon, and nutmeg notes. 

Classic Summer Whiskey Cocktails

Try making a Manhattan or Old Fashioned for a classic summer whiskey cocktail. The Manhattan is made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters and served over ice cubes or an ice ball maker. The Old Fashioned has bourbon or rye whiskey, simple syrup, angostura bitters, and orange peel as garnish. Both cocktails can easily add sophistication to any summer gathering.

A Whiskey Sour is another classic summer cocktail that can have several different types of whiskey. The traditional recipe calls for bourbon or rye whiskey, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, egg whites, and Angostura bitters as garnish. For a twist on the classic recipe, add muddled fruit or herbs like mint to give the cocktail a unique flavor.

Creative Summer Whiskey Cocktails 

For those looking for something outside the box regarding summer whiskey cocktails, try making a Mint Julep or Watermelon Mint Spritz. The Mint Julep is a refreshing twist on the classic Julep recipe and calls for bourbon or rye whiskey mixed with fresh mint leaves and simple syrup over ice from an ice ball maker. The Watermelon Mint Spritz is another ideal option that uses fresh watermelon puree combined with mint leaves, bourbon or rye whiskey, lime juice, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters as a garnish for a fun twist on the traditional spritz.

A Maraschino Cherry Bourbon Smash is perfect for those who want something sweet and fresh in the summer. This cocktail combines muddled cherries with fresh mint leaves before combining with bourbon or rye whiskey with simple syrup to make a refreshing summer favorite. 

Perfect Summer Pairings for Whiskey Cocktails 

To truly enjoy any summer whiskey cocktail, one must pair it with the right food. Appetizers like cheese plates or charcuterie boards are excellent pairings for all types of whiskeys due to their variety of flavors. Salads can also make great accompaniments to any whiskey cocktail thanks to their crunchy textures that lighten up some heavier drinks while providing depth in flavor profiles that accentuate the spirit’s nuances. Main dishes like grilled fish or chicken can complement any summer whiskey cocktail perfectly due to their lightness in flavor.

Preparing Whiskey Cocktails for a Crowd

When preparing any type of cocktail for a crowd, there are some key points you should keep in mind when shopping for ingredients. Purchase enough liquor bottles while considering how much you’ll need per person. Prep-ahead strategies like batching ingredients beforehand can help save time when making drinks during your party. Keep health-conscious guests in mind by providing lighter alternatives like club soda instead of sugary mixers.

Conclusion

With summer in full swing, it’s time to break out the whiskey and mix the perfect cocktail. Whether you’re looking for classic, creative, or a crowd, there’s a whiskey cocktail. You’ll have a delicious summer drink that will leave your guests wanting more, whether it’s a Manhattan, Mint Julep, or a Watermelon Mint Spritz. Grab your whiskey and get mixing.