5 Best Whisky Cocktails To Try: Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, Black Dog to VAT 69 - Guide for Scotch Lovers

Scotch whisky does not always have to be enjoyed neat, on the rocks or with a splash of water. Sometimes, all it takes to make your Scotch drinking experience special is a little citrus, a dash of bitters or a generous pour of ginger ale to give your favourite drink a completely different personality. These whisky cocktails will definitely make your eyes widen with surprise, if nothing else. From the familiar whisky sour to a fruit-and-spice cocktail, these 5 best whisky cocktails bring together Johnnie Walker Red Label, Chivas Regal, Black Dog, VAT 69 69th Barrel and Johnnie Walker Black Label whisky. Whether you are hosting friends or simply looking to try something different, here are five Scotch whisky cocktail recipes worth shaking or stirring.

5 Best Whisky Cocktails to Try

Johnnie Walker Whisky Sour

A classic that rarely disappoints, the Whisky Sour brings together the warmth of Scotch and the sharpness of fresh lemon. For this version, add 50ml Johnnie Walker Red Label whisky, 25ml freshly squeezed lemon juice and 15–25ml simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. You can also add an egg white for a smoother, frothy texture. Shake everything with ice for around 20 seconds, strain into an ice-filled glass and garnish with an orange slice and cherry.

What you get? A balance of citrus, sweetness and gentle whisky spice. 

Chivas Regal Old Fashioned

If you prefer a cocktail that lets the whisky take centre stage, the Old Fashioned is a good place to start. Add 50ml Chivas Regal 18 Year Old whisky, two dashes of Angostura bitters and 5ml sugar syrup to a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir for approximately 20 seconds, strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube and finish with orange zest.

What you get? The bitters and citrus bring out the richer, sweeter character of the Scotch whisky without overwhelming it.

Black Dog Manhattan

The Manhattan gives Black Dog Centenary Black Reserve a rather sophisticated makeover. Combine 45ml Black Dog whisky, 30ml sweet vermouth and 2ml bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir until well chilled, strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a maraschino cherry.

What you get? The herbal notes of vermouth and aromatic bitters complement the whisky's oaky character, The cocktail that emerges is rich and balanced.

VAT 69 69th Barrel

With a name like 69th Barrel, this cocktail certainly knows how to get attention. Add 60ml VAT 69 Scotch whisky and 45ml apple juice to a rocks glass filled with ice. Add two star anise pods and a couple of dashes of bitters, then stir gently. Garnish with a cherry if you like.

What you get? The apple brings a fruity sweetness, while star anise adds a warming spice that merges with the whisky's oaky notes.

Johnnie Walker Black Label Johnnie Ginger

For something refreshingly uncomplicated, try the Johnnie Ginger. Pour 45ml Johnnie Walker Black Label whisky into a highball glass filled with ice, top with 180ml ginger ale and add a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Give it a gentle stir and garnish with a lime wedge.

What you get? The ginger's subtle heat and citrus freshness work with Black Label whisky's smoky, sweet character to create a simple cocktail, which is ideal for the times you don't want to spend the evening playing bartender.

Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, Black Dog to VAT 69, these cocktails show just how versatile a bottle of Scotch whisky can be. And the best part is that you can personalise the whisky taste just the way you want it.