Skip to main content

We're sorry Ballantines.com won't work in this browser

Try the Edge browser
Article

The best aperitif cocktail to kick off your night right

Cocktail
ballantines finest summer pitcher drink

Dinner might be the main event, but the real magic starts with a drink. These aperitif cocktails aren’t just something to sip while you wait—they’re your opening statement. Big flavour, fresh energy and just the right amount of bite.

Whether you’re lining up snacks, lighting the BBQ or hosting on the fly, these pre-dinner drinks are built to impress. Think fruit-forward and fizzy, classic mixers with a whisky twist, and pitcher serves that get the conversation flowing.

 

Apple Pop Spritz

This one’s sharp, sparkling and built for easy sipping. The Apple Pop Spritz mixes Ballantine’s Finest with apple juice, soda water and a lemon wedge for a bright, sweet serve. Ideal for chilled-out catch-ups and breezy late afternoons.

 

Apocalypse Spritz

Skip the fuss, keep the flavour. The Apocalypse Spritz brings together Ballantine’s Finest and Fanta Orange for a sweet, zesty hit that’s impossible to ignore. Serve it cold and let it do the talking.

 

Moxxi’s Mule

The Moxxi’s Mule comes in hot with whisky, ginger beer and a pop of lime. Zesty, punchy and ready to stir things up—this one’s a crowd-pleaser whether you’re cooking inside or grilling out back.

 

Ray of Sunshine

As the name suggests, this spritz brings a little citrus energy to your pre-dinner moment. This mango and pineapple cocktail blends Ballantine’s Sunshine with mango and lime, with an orange wedge to finish. Light, refreshing, and made for golden hour.

 

Spritz My Way

The Spritz My Way is crisp, cool and custom-built for those who don’t do boring drinks. It’s a mix of Ballantine’s Finest, floral Italicus, soda water and Prosecco, topped with an orange wheel for a bright hit of citrus.

 

Speyside Spritz

A twist on a classic spritz, the Speyside Spritz swaps in Ballantine’s 7 American Barrel for extra creamy caramel sweetness. Custom-build with your favourite fizz be it Prosecco, champagne or sparkling cider. It’s the kind of drink you want in hand when you’re easing into the evening.

Stay Berry Pitcher

Planning a big one? Go for the Stay Berry Pitcher. Built with Ballantine’s Finest, cranberry juice, soda water, elderflower and cranberry, it’s sweet, fizzy, and perfect for sharing before dinner gets serious.

 

Summer Pitcher

Go super citrusy with the Summer Pitcher. This crowdpleaser combines Ballantine’s Finest with Lillet Blanc, lemon juice and lemon soda. It’s light, fun and made to pour when guests roll in and the playlist’s already on.

 

Triple Pineapple

Bring tropical energy to your table with the Triple Pineapple, a super fruity highball made with our pineapple spirit drink. The triple threat comes from the addition of pineapple juice and a pineapple wedge—it’s a full-on flavour hit that pairs well with sunshine and salty snacks.

 

Whisky Ginger Julep

Crushed ice, fresh mint, and the spicy-sweet combo of scotch whisky, lime and ginger beer—Whisky Ginger Julep is a chill pre-dinner serve that looks good in the glass and goes down even better.

 

Whisky Tonic

If your go-to pre-dinner drink is a G&T, this is your upgrade. The Whisky Tonic mixes Ballantine’s Finest with tonic water and a lemon wedge. Clean, crisp, and effortlessly cool.

 

Whisky Cream Soda
For something smooth and slightly sweet, the Whisky Cream Soda is a laid-back pour that still makes an impression. It pairs spiced scotch whisky with cream soda and tons of ice. Think retro vibes, modern twist. Made for sitting back with.

 

Whisky Paloma

Sweet, tangy, and made to wake up your taste buds, the Whisky Paloma is an aperitif that doesn’t play it safe. Ballantine’s Finest meets grapefruit soda—perfect when you want to start strong.

Discover more whisky cocktails for the perfect pour and more whisky articles of inspiration. 

Get party ready with these big batch whisky cocktails

Check out the best big batch whisky cocktails to serve to a crowd. From refreshing summer spritzers to warming winter punches.

DISCOVER MORE

18 mixers to drink with whisky for when you want something simple

Here we share the best whisky mixers, from classic combos to more exotic pairings. Which will you try first?

Discover more