Classic cocktails, remixed: the best whisky twists for your drinks
Classic cocktails are timeless for a reason. But swap out the usual spirits for whisky, and suddenly, you’ve got a whole new vibe.
Scotch whisky brings depth, spice and richness, turning well-loved serves into something better and bolder. Whether you’re looking to add a little smoke to a citrusy spritz or give a tropical favourite some extra warmth, these whisky twists prove that rules are meant to be rewritten.
Featured Whisky Cocktails 1 – 5
Blue Monday
Traditionally made with vodka, the Blue Monday is all about vibrant colour and flavour. But this recipe takes it to a whole new level.
Switching vodka for Ballantine’s Finest adds a richer, slightly spiced backbone that mellows out the punchy blue curaçao. And we haven’t stopped there. Coconut and pineapple also get a shoutout, making this creamy retro cocktail worthy of any BBQ season.
Get our Blue Monday cocktail recipe.
Boulevardier
Invented in the 1920s, this spin has become a classic in its own right. Think of it as a Scotch Negroni. Instead of gin, Ballantine’s 10 Year Old takes the lead, blending with sweet vermouth and Campari for a deeper, more complex take.
The whisky’s spice and vanilla notes round out the bitter-sweet flavours, making it a bold yet balanced sip. Serve your Boulevardier over ice with an orange peel garnish.
Mix up our Boulevardier cocktail recipe
Parmesan Espresso Martini
An espresso martini, but not as you know it. Ditching vodka for whisky gives this cocktail extra richness, while a parmesan garnish adds an unexpected umami twist. Trust us, it sounds weird but it works.
Ballantine’s subtle sweet notes blend perfectly with the coffee’s bitterness, creating a cocktail that’s smooth, strong and a little bit savoury. If you’re after something that’s got all the kick of an after-dinner espresso with a sophisticated edge, this is it.
Meet our Whisky Espresso Martini recipe
Hugo
Usually a refreshing, floral spritz made with gin or prosecco, the whisky version of a Hugo takes things in a richer direction. Stick with the light flavours of elderflower and lemon, but swap the spirit to the smooth spice of Ballantine’s Finest—our fresh, floral aftertaste works perfectly.
It’s the kind of cocktail that’s got it all—sweetness, freshness and endlessly drinkable. Ideal for sunny afternoons that call for something epic.
Mix up our Whisky Hugo cocktail recipe
Featured Whisky Cocktails 6 – 9
Paper Plane
The Paper Plane is a modern classic that’s already getting mixed up. Stepping in for bourbon, our blended scotch whisky brings a little more smoke and spice to the Aperol and Amaro combo.
The whisky’s natural honeyed notes soften the bitter edge of the Amaro, creating a drink that’s even easier to drink. A guaranteed hit when you want to show off your cocktail making skills (without having to do too much).
Learn how to make a Paper Plane cocktail
The Brooklyn Mary
A Bloody Mary, but with more attitude. Swapping out vodka for Ballantine’s transforms this savoury classic into something sensational. The fruity tomato base and lemon balance each other out. Whilst the sweet tones of scotch keep each sip extra smooth.
This is a drink that doesn’t just wake you up—it kicks things into high gear. Best served at a late brunch with plenty of good food to match.
Get our Whisky Bloody Mary recipe
Whisky Piña Colada
This tropical favourite just got Scottish. While rum is the usual go-to, Ballantine’s brings a new level of flavour to the mix, blending with coconut and pineapple for a cocktail that’s creamy, rich and just the right amount of sweet.
Our whisky’s vanilla and honey notes enhance the coconut’s natural creaminess, making for a Piña Colada that’s guaranteed to go down smooth. Best enjoyed when you’re dreaming of a beach, no matter where you are.
Get the recipe for our Whisky Piña Colada
Whisky & Tonic
A classic G&T gets a bold makeover when whisky takes the lead. Swapping gin for Ballantine’s adds caramel and spice to the crisp bitterness of tonic, creating a drink that’s just as refreshing but with a much deeper, unexpected flavour.
It’s a simple serve that proves whisky can be just as light and easy-drinking as gin, making it a great go-to for any summertime session.
Get our recipe for a Whisky & Tonic
Whisky Paloma
The Paloma’s usual tequila base gives way to Ballantine’s, creating a whisky twist on Mexico’s most famous grapefruit cocktail. And it goes down a storm.
This drink keeps the citrusy freshness of the original but adds a smooth, slightly smoky depth that makes it even more sippable. A must-try for fans of tangy, thirst-quenching cocktails who want something with a little depth.
Get our Whisky Paloma cocktail recipe
From smooth sours to tropical serves, these whisky twists prove that classics are just the beginning. Whether you’re in the mood for something fresh and floral or seriously punchy, whisky’s versatility opens up a whole new world of flavour. Time to start experimenting.
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