7 Cocktails with Whiskey to treat your tastebuds
Article written by Harold Camaya
The process of making whiskey is a long and cumbersome one; it involves the fermentation of grains like barley, maize and wheat, followed by distillation and finally aging in wooden barrels. The nature of this process determines the type and quality of the whiskey. The complex mixture of flavors in different whiskeys makes for some very interesting cocktails.
Here’s a list of some of the most popular whiskey cocktails, which can uplift the mood at any gathering:
Manhattan Cocktail
This is one cocktail which has been tried and tested so many times that it’s almost impossible for it to go wrong now. If you like whiskey, you’ll definitely like this unique blend of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. Rye whiskey can also be substituted with bourbon or blended whiskey if you’re not too fond of the former. The cherry garnish on the top perfectly substitutes the rest of the drink and accentuates its flavors.
Casanova
True to its name, the drink has many lovers and admirers all over the globe. The main ingredient is usually bourbon or brandy, but there are a variety of other flavors, including strong hints of lemon or orange juice. This cocktail is based on the idea that instead of trying to overwrite the flavors of the whiskey, the other ingredients should come together to highlight its flavors.
Old-fashioned
Even people who don’t drink alcohol couldn’t have gone their entire lives without hearing about this cocktail. The whiskey is combined with bitters, sugar, and a splash of water, making it a drink which can be put together easily by anyone. The choice of whiskey may vary depending upon the drinker, but bourbon and rye whiskey are some options which can never go wrong.
Jack and Coke
The cocktail is as simple as it sounds: a combination of Jack Daniel’s whiskey and Coca-Cola. Some people say that the drink is as American as it gets; however, the simple but enticing drink has become popular worldwide. Most beginners prefer the Jack and Coke since the high amounts of Coca-Cola in the drink dilute the strong flavors of whiskey, which are otherwise too strong for people who are just starting to enjoy the taste of whiskey. Therefore, if you have just started warming up to the idea of whiskey, Jack and Coke is a safe bet to begin your adventure with.
Rub & Rye
A whiskey cocktail like no other – this drink may not sit well with everyone, but those who prefer strong flavors of whiskey adore this drink. The unusual mix of lemon juice, maple syrup, and egg white gives birth to savory flavors which complement the strong flavors of rye whiskey perfectly. The drink is completed with a mesquite salt rim and a beef jerky garnish. Since most of the ingredients are easily available at home, this cocktail is quite popular at house parties as well.
Irish Coffee
If there’s one thing that Irish people can’t live without, it’s alcohol. The prolonged periods of cold weather are as much a part of Ireland as whiskey. While the region has some of the best whiskeys to offer, the Irish coffee is one of the most popular cocktails which can be made using Irish whiskey. The combination of Irish coffee and Irish whiskey is a delight for whiskey enthusiasts, as well as coffee lovers everywhere. To top it all off, a bit of whipped cream and sugar makes the drink all the more enjoyable.
Washington Apple
Most people who have been drinking whiskey for a long time prefer the other flavors in their cocktail to be much milder, so as to not ruin the taste of whiskey. However, the strong flavors of sour apple schnapps and cranberry juice have an opposite effect on whiskey, which is why Washington Apple cocktails are enjoyed by beginners as well as veterans. The unique blend of flavors provides a novel taste and texture which is hard to dislike.
Apart from offering unique flavors, this liquid gold also has a number of lesser-known benefits. It is considered one of the healthiest alcohols as it aids in weight-loss and even improves heart health.
Most nutritionists advise people to replace numerous pints of beer with a few glasses of whiskey, as the latter is not only better for the body but also has a higher level of alcohol content. Moreover, although a direct relationship between drinking whiskey and curing cancer is yet to be established, the presence of antioxidants in whiskey can go a long way in cancer prevention.
Therefore, whiskey is not only a drink that allows you to have a good time but also ensures a healthy life too.
References:
https://www.liquor.com/recipes/manhattan-2/
https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/drinks/g3242/whiskey-cocktails/
https://www.thespruce.com/essential-whiskey-cocktails-761277
https://www.liquor.com/slideshows/whiskey-cocktails-to-make-at-home/4/#gs.EUxO3MI
https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/beverage/whiskey.html
