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16 unique whisky cocktails that break all the rules

Ballantine's Day Ballantine's Pickle Juice Martini

There’s no wrong way to drink whisky—if you like it, it works. Whether it’s sweet, sour, or straight-up weird, whisky plays nice with everything. You want whisky with pickle juice? Done. A tropical whisky Piña Colada? Sure thing. 

Because when it comes to whisky, anything goes. And to prove it, we’ve rounded up our most unique cocktails from bold flavour pairings to boundary pushing serves. Ready to find your new favourite?

Pickleback 

This one’s for the adventurous drinkers. A whisky and pickle juice cocktail might sound out there, but once you try it, you’ll get it. The sharp tang of pickle brine cuts through the smoothness of Ballantine’s Finest, making every sip a bold hit of flavour. It doesn’t get weirder than this—but trust us, it works. 

Caledonia Caliente

This whisky cocktail brings serious heat. Caledonia Caliente fuses Ballantine’s with a kick of spicy chilli and fresh lime. Plus an infusion of coriander incase that wasn’t savoury enough. It’s got that fire and ice contrast that’ll keep your taste buds buzzing. Perfect for those who like their drinks with a little attitude.

Berry Beer

Two of the best beverages on earth come together with the Berry Beer. Fruit meets malt in this mix up and the result is a fizzy, fruity cocktail that’s super refreshing. Think of it like a berry twist on the classic Boilermaker. Perfect for those days when you can’t choose between a cold one and something a little more daring.

Bobby Bru Whisky Sour

Take a classic and give it a twist—introducing the Bobby Bru Whisky Sour. This cocktail mixes Ballantine’s with Irn-Bru, the Scottish soda icon. The result? A cocktail that’s fizzy, tangy and has a sharp whisky bite. It’s a tribute to Scotland at its best.

spicy chili pina colada cocktail recipe - ballantine's

Chilli Piña

You’ve heard of a Piña Colada, but have you tried it with whisky? How about chilli? Our Spicy Piña is a tropical twist on the classic beach drink that does both. Pineapple, whisky and a hit of chilli syrup come together for a smooth, refreshing sip that’s perfect for sun-soaked days that can do with a little more heat.

Whisky Mango Lassi

Sweet, sour, creamy and spiked with whisky, our Whisky Mango Lassi takes a classic Indian drink and turns it into a cocktail like no other. It’s indulgent, smooth, and totally unique. Ideal for when you want something to cool off with.

Chip and Dip Chocolate Milkshake

This one’s a snack and a drink in one. The Chip and Dip Whisky Milkshake mixes chocolate milkshake with Ballantine’s, but the real kicker? You dip salted chips right in. It’s salty, sweet, creamy and absolutely genius.

Parmesan Espresso Martini

Coffee, cheese, and whisky—yeah, we’re serious. This Parmesan Espresso Martini brings a sharp, salty edge to the traditional coffee cocktail that’s all about balance. It’s bold, it’s smooth and it’s got a kick that’ll keep you coming back for more. 

Glenburgie Goose

Another spicy cocktail to keep you guessing. The Glenburgie Goose is our favourite way to mix things up in summer. With mango, lime, mint and smooth Ballantine’s 7 American Barrel. The surprise kick is all down to a dash of our RZA Presents: Ballantine’s X Flying Goose Sriracha Sauce. The ultimate way to turn a whisky cocktail into a completely unique serve.

Iced Green Tea

For a drink that’s as refreshing as it is unique, the Ballantine’s Finest Iced Green Tea hits the spot. Crisp, cold, and slightly herbal, it’s the ultimate cool-down drink with an unexpected whisky twist.

Hot Honey Sour

Spicy honey and whisky come together in the Hot Honey Sour. It’s a perfect blend of heat and sweet, wrapped up in a smooth sour. The honey gives it depth, while the whisky adds its signature kick. This one’s for those who like a little edge with their sweet tooth.

Irn-Bru Slushie

Take Irn-Bru, blend it with Ballantine’s, and freeze it into a slushie. Summer sorted. The Irn-Bru Slushie should be Scotland’s signature serve. It’s sweet, fizzy, and totally refreshing—a must-try for anyone who loves a nostalgic twist. 

irn bru slushie - frozen whisky cocktail recipe - Ballantine's

Lychee Sour 

If you’re looking for something fruity, this Lychee Sour is where it’s at. Sweet lychee meets the smooth hit of Ballantine’s for a cocktail that’s light, refreshing and full of flavour. It’s simple but stands out in all the right ways.

Peanut Butter Hot Toddy

Peanut butter in a hot toddy? You better believe it. The Peanut Butter Hot Toddy mixes Ballantine’s with creamy peanut butter for a rich, indulgent twist on a classic. Perfect for warming up on cold nights.

Whisky Ice Cream Float

Great things happen when desserts meet cocktails. And our Whisky Ice Cream Float is as good as it gets. Creamy, cold and just the right amount of tipsy. The ultimate twist on your classic childhood treat.

The Guadalupe

Last but not least, The Guadalupe is a unique whisky flavour pairing that ticks all the right boxes. Charred fresh pineapple, smoked maple syrup and fresh lemon are a few things you’ll need to get its sweet, smooth finish. Save this one for those sophisticated nights.

With these unique whisky cocktails, there’s no limit to what you can create. Whether you’re after something spicy, sweet, or a bit more adventurous, Ballantine’s collection of whisky drinks have you covered. So go ahead, grab a bottle, and start mixing things up—because when it comes to whisky, anything goes.

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